Before Ja Morant electrified the NBA with gravity-defying dunks and fearless finishes, he was dominating the court at Murray State University. Now, Nike is honoring that journey with a new colorway of the Ja 2—one that pulls direct inspiration from his time as a Racer. Clean, sharp, and layered with storytelling details, the Ja 2 “Murray State” is a tribute to where it all started for one of the league’s most exciting young talents.
Design That Speaks to Heritage
Visually, the Ja 2 “Murray State” is crisp and calculated. The upper features a breathable white mesh that keeps things minimal, letting the details shine. Gold fades into white along the midsole, giving a subtle gradient effect that mirrors movement on the court. Navy chenille Swooshes add a textured contrast, pulling straight from the school’s iconic color scheme. It’s a quiet flex for those who know—and a clean aesthetic for those who don’t.
The attention to detail runs deeper than just color. The heel is stamped with “12 AM,” a nod to Morant’s relentless grind and late-night workouts—a phrase that’s become part of his personal brand. His signature logo appears on the tongue, rounding out the identity of the shoe with a mark that’s becoming just as recognizable as his game.
Built for Speed, Designed for Precision
Performance-wise, the Ja 2 doesn’t slack. It’s built with Zoom Air cushioning that runs beneath the foot for explosive takeoffs and smooth landings. Whether you’re pulling up from deep or slashing to the rim, the energy return is responsive and consistent. The outsole uses a grippy rubber compound that supports quick cuts and agile footwork, essential for players who rely on speed and reaction.
Unlike bulkier silhouettes, the Ja 2 stays relatively low to the ground, offering court feel without sacrificing support. The mesh upper is reinforced in all the right places, ensuring it holds up through tough games or high-energy pick-up runs. For those hooping indoors or out, this sneaker holds its own under pressure.
A Personal Connection to Every Step
What makes this release special isn’t just the visuals—it’s the story it carries. Murray State wasn’t a top-tier powerhouse when Morant arrived. But his performance there flipped the narrative, putting the program on the map and proving that greatness can come from anywhere. This sneaker captures that energy.
It’s a nod to every athlete who’s ever been overlooked, every player who’s worked through the late hours with no audience and no recognition. With “12 AM” stitched into the design and collegiate colors woven throughout, the Ja 2 “Murray State” becomes more than just footwear—it’s a reminder of the journey.
Nike’s Continued Investment in Athlete Storytelling
Nike’s approach to signature sneakers has always been about more than function. Each iteration is an opportunity to tell a story, whether it’s about legacy, style, or evolution. The Ja 2 fits right into that strategy, offering a platform for Morant to express not just how he plays, but why he plays.
With each colorway, Nike is exploring different aspects of Morant’s identity—from his roots to his current mindset. The “Murray State” edition adds a meaningful layer to that narrative, connecting fans to the origin of a player who’s reshaping the game in real time.
Release Details and Where to Cop
The Nike Ja 2 “Murray State” colorway is set to drop next week and will be available via Nike.com, the SNKRS app, and select Nike Basketball retailers. While pricing details haven’t been officially announced, it’s expected to fall in line with previous Ja 2 releases.
Given Morant’s popularity and the personal nature of this edition, demand is likely to be high. Fans of the player, the program, or the silhouette will want to move fast. And for collectors, this release is one of the most narrative-driven yet—bringing together performance, nostalgia, and personal milestones in one clean package.
Legacy on and Off the Court
With every sneaker drop, Ja Morant continues to build his off-court presence. The Ja 2 “Murray State” isn’t just a release—it’s a reflection of character, hard work, and the loyalty he continues to show to the places that helped shape him. As his career unfolds, expect Nike to keep that momentum going by leaning deeper into these personal chapters.
For now, this release captures a moment in time—a time when Morant was just beginning to show the world what he could do. And now, he’s got the sneaker to match that origin story.
