Blast from the Past: Wale Debuts Unreleased Nike Foamposite Sample at NBA All-Star Game

The early 2010s were a golden era for sneaker collaborations, and one of the key players during that time was rapper Wale. Known for his deep passion for sneakers, Wale often debuted unreleased Nike samples, keeping sneakerheads on the edge of their seats.

Well, it seems the clock has turned back, as Wale was recently spotted wearing a never-before-seen Nike sample during the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game. The photos, shared by @higherlxng and Frank Cooker on Instagram, showcase a sneaker that appears to be a Foamposite with the distinct ankle collar shape of the Zoom Hyperflight.

This throwback to the early 2000s Nike Basketball era, championed by designers like Eric Avar and Aaron Cooper, is a clear indication that Nike is making a conscious effort to reclaim the energy it once held in the 2010s. The brand is seemingly on a mission to get the formula right – a combination of desirable performance products, strategic partnerships, and aligning with genuine sneaker enthusiasts like Wale.

The fact that Nike is turning to Wale, a long-time brand advocate, to debut this sample is a telling sign. During the first half of the 2010s, Wale's feet were essentially billboards for the Swoosh, with the rapper often being the first to showcase upcoming Foamposite releases. Rumors of a Wale x Nike collaboration were rampant, but the partnership never materialized, until the recent DMV Foamposite launch in 2024.

Now, with Wale once again debuting a never-before-seen Nike sample, it's clear that the brand is looking to rekindle that magic. As the post-John Donahoe era of Nike unfolds, the company is focusing on reclaiming its standing in the sneaker community, and collaborating with authentic voices like Wale could be a key part of that strategy.

While details on this specific Foamposite sample are scarce, the mere fact that Wale is wearing it is enough to pique the interest of sneakerheads. It's a nostalgic nod to the past and a promising sign of what's to come from the Swoosh as it looks to regain its footing in the ever-evolving sneaker landscape.