Nike is set to honor the HBCU Swingman Classic with a special edition of one of Ken Griffey Jr.’s most iconic signature sneakers. Ahead of the HBCU Swingman Classic, Nike has unveiled a new colorway for the widely acclaimed Air Griffey Max 1.
The Air Griffey Max 1, a silhouette synonymous with Griffey’s Hall of Fame baseball career. The Air Griffey Max 1 originally debuted in 1996 as Griffey’s first signature training shoe and remains one of the most recognizable baseball-inspired sneakers ever produced. The shoe is expected to launch on July 10, coinciding with the start of the 2026 HBCU Swingman Classic during MLB All-Star Week in Philadelphia.
The sneaker features a Midnight Navy base with Team Gold and teal accents, colors that closely mirror the uniforms worn during the annual showcase. White leather underlays and embroidered detailing further distinguish the shoe from traditional Air Griffey Max 1 releases.
The HBCU Swingman Classic was founded by Griffey in partnership with Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association Youth Development Foundation. Since launching in 2023, the event has served as a national showcase for many of the top baseball players from HBCUs.
Each year, 50 HBCU players are selected to participate in the game, giving them an opportunity to perform in front of MLB scouts, executives and fans during All-Star Week festivities. The event has become one of the premier showcases for Black college baseball talent and has helped increase visibility for HBCU programs nationwide.
The sneaker is expected to retail for $180. Nike has not yet officially announced the release.
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