PUMA Hoops and basketball sensation LaMelo Ball have joined forces to introduce their first-ever co-designed lifestyle shoe – LaFrancé. This exciting collaboration brings together the creative vision of LaMelo Ball and the innovative design expertise of the PUMA team to create a unique and stylish footwear option for fans of both basketball and fashion.
The LaFrancé shoe draws inspiration from LaMelo’s namesake lifestyle brand, which blends elements of streetwear fashion, sport, and lifestyle. The silhouette of the LaFrancé reflects a fresh interpretation of LaMelo’s personal style, with a chunky street-inspired design that exudes his signature energy and flair. The “Amour” colorway, featuring an all-red fiery upper, pays homage to the bold aesthetics of Y2K skate culture, setting the tone for future color variations to come.
Noah Bice, PUMA Hoops Designer of LaFrancé, shared insights into the design process, stating, “If you know Melo, you know he does everything large. So, we had to come through with a silhouette to fit that profile. The skate-inspired, chunky upper and cup sole felt like the perfect choice for Melo’s first lifestyle shoe.” The LaFrancé collection also includes a range of apparel pieces, such as graphic tees, mesh tanks, shorts, and track pants, offering fans a complete off-court style experience.
In addition to the LaFrancé, PUMA and LaMelo Ball are introducing the MB.03 Blue Hive, a vibrant sneaker inspired by the city of Charlotte and its passionate Hornets fans. The electric blue colorway with teal and black accents captures the essence of the city and features Melo’s distinctive “Not From Here” style. Equipped with PUMA Hoops signature technology, including a NITROFOAM™ midsole and engineered nonslip rubber traction, the MB.03 Blue Hive delivers both style and performance on and off the court.
Both the LaFrancé and MB.03 Blue Hive collections are now available for purchase at PUMA.com, the PUMA mobile app, the PUMA NYC Flagship store, as well as select retailers worldwide, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, and Champs. With prices ranging from $40 to $125, these stylish and functional footwear options cater to fans of all ages and preferences.
For fans looking to stay updated on the latest trends and events in Charlotte, the local lifestyle and entertainment show, Charlotte Today, offers a comprehensive look at everything happening in the Queen City. Hosted by Mia Atkins and Eugene Robinson on WCNC Charlotte, the show covers a wide range of topics, from trending news to local restaurants, events, and entertainment.
Charlotte Today also features sponsored content from local and national businesses, providing opportunities for companies to reach a diverse audience. For businesses interested in advertising with Charlotte Today, information can be found on WCNC.com or by calling (214) 977-6001. Viewers can also connect with the Charlotte Today team via email at charlottetoday@wcnc.com and follow the show on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Stay connected with Charlotte Today on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to discover more about the hosts, Mia and Eugene, and engage with the vibrant community of viewers who share a passion for all things Charlotte. Don’t miss out on the latest news, trends, and entertainment offerings in the Queen City – tune in to Charlotte Today weekdays at 11 a.m. on WCNC Charlotte.