Nike Basketball captured the Pinoy’s unparalleled belief in the supernatural and LeBron James’s superhuman efforts to strive for greatness and made it into a shoe: the limited edition LeBron Soldier 12 ‘Agimat.’
This is now the second LeBron shoe to be featured in an Agimat colorway. The first one was the Nike LeBron 14, which was also received warmly by Filipino basketball aficionados.
The 12th edition in the LeBron Soldier line features a simplified strap, lower collar, and circular knit upper that, according to Nike Senior Footwear designer Jason Petrie, is a “symbol of toughness,” just like the Filipino.
Carrying the line ‘Mula Mandirigma Sa Mandirigma’ (‘From One Warrior to Another’), the LeBron Soldier 12 Agimat is LeBron’s gift to Filipino warriors on the basketball court.
Compared to last year’s release, this year’s highly-anticipated inspiration is enriched with unique symbolisms that stand out aesthetically.
Both MNL and the number 330 stand for Manila and LeBron’s hometown of Akron, Ohio, respectively. A blazing flame represents the country’s many volcanoes and LeBron’s intense passion. Four stars remind everyone of The King’s 4 MVP awards.
Finally, a steep mountain is a subtle nod to the terrain of the Philippines and James’ relentless drive to be the best to ever play.
The Nike Lebron Soldier 12 Agimat will release globally — including Southeast Asian markets in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand — on June 15. Pairs will be available at Nike Park and Titan branches. Each pair will sell for PHP 6,745.
