words // Nick DePaula:
When it comes to iconic court blocks, the original Nike Air Garnett III stood out both on court and on TV thanks to its bold leather overlays and a glowing mesh upper fade.
With design inspiration stemming from Kevin Garnett’s radiant energy and personality on the hardwood, the shoe was an instant hit when it originally released back in 1999. It was equally loved for its awesome looks and its incredible on-court performance.
Later that spring during the NCAA’s March Madness tournament, and even now over a decade later in the league, the shoe continued to live on well outside of just its signature namesake as a Kicks On Court classic.
Check out some of the best Garnett III sightings through the years, and be sure to check out our feature with designer Aaron Cooper detailing the shoe’s full backstory.
Shane Battier — Duke Mike Dunleavy — Duke
Brent White — Florida
Mike Miller & Florida Gators
Gilbert Arenas — Arizona
Kenny Satterfield — Cincinatti Khalid El-Amin — UCONN
Saul Smith — Kentucky
Tayshaun Prince — Kentucky
Tim Hardaway (PEs!!) — Miami Heat
Gilbert Arenas — Washington Wizards
Gilbert Arenas — Orlando Magic
Thaddeus Young — Minnesota Timberwolves
