Fashionable yet Functional Basketballs Created by Off-White and Wilson

Paris, July 2024: the excitement surrounding the Olympic Games is rising and there's no denying that sports are a fashion statement, so what better time than now for the fashion and sports worlds to collide? With the launch of the inaugural Off-White™ c/o Wilson® basketballs, a collaboration that was officially unveiled at Paris Fashion Week in February, this limited-edition release celebrates the synergy between Off-White™'s high-fashion streetwear aesthetic and Wilson's heritage in sports innovation, honouring the legacy of late Off-White™ founder Virgil Abloh, who had a veritable passion for the sport. The basketballs debuted in a striking presentation, housed in metal mesh totes reminiscent of basketball nets, and accompanied by basketball-inspired looks. Chicago-based Wilson Sporting Goods Co. is renowned for being the official supplier of basketballs for major basketball leagues, such as the NBA, WNBA, NCAA, and others.

The collaboration introduces two distinct designs: the first is a classic Wilson basketball adorned with the iconic logos of both brands, symbolising a blend of tradition and contemporary design. The second, however, breaks new ground: the Wilson Airless Gen1. This futuristic basketball features a 3D-printed polymer lattice structure, eliminating the need for inflation while maintaining the weight, size, and rebound characteristics of a regular basketball. Its black monochrome design and hexagonal holes allow air to pass through, offering a subversive yet functional take on the traditional basketball. Abloh's vision is evident in the collaboration's emphasis on both form and function. The Off-White™ c/o Wilson® basketballs will be available starting July 30th at select Off-White™ stores and online at off---white.com and wilson.com. The highly anticipated Wilson Airless Gen1 will have a subsequent release later this year. Stay tuned!

Courtesy: Off-White™

Text: Leilani Streshinsky