Ja Morant’s Second Signature Shoe, the Ja 2, is Built for the Next Generation of Playmakers

Quick, high-flying, anon d elusive, Ja Morant needs a shoe that keeps pace with his game and helps him get up.

Enter the Ja 2, Nike’s solution for Morant and the next generation of playmakers whose dynamic performance demands the highest levels of support, bounce, responsiveness, and control.

Building off the success of Morant’s first signature shoe, the Ja 1, Nike designers created a second-generation silhouette that maximizes comfort and support, defending against the rigors of a full season of takeoffs, landings, and lateral movement.

“From the Ja 1 to the Ja 2, the core things remain the same. The work ethic doesn’t change,” Morant says. “It’s about comfort, more bounce, and bringing my fans into some different storytelling they may not know. We tell those stories through the colorways of my shoe.”

The Ja 2’s forefoot Air Zoom unit delivers extra bounce and effortlessly guides athletes through quick shifts on the court, while a molded midfoot panel drives lockdown responsiveness and control for hoopers who run the break or break off defenders one on one. An underfoot traction pattern — inspired by the semitrailer tires Morant used to train in his childhood backyard — further allows athletes to cut with confidence.

The silhouette’s sidewall guardrail is designed to protect and stabilize, giving players the confidence to take off unexpectedly, and a waterfall-inspired collar lining and ankle padding add comfort for any kind of movement. A ballistic mesh upper improves breathability all the while, no matter how much heat the game brings.

Morant’s hands-on creative approach shows up in several design elements of the Ja 2, including colorways that reflect the feeling of watching him compete and his background as Nike Basketball’s first Gen Z signature athlete. The “Purple Sky” launch colorway, for example, is inspired by the fact that watching Morant in action — with his high-flying dunks, flashy ball handling skills, and intense energy — is as mesmerizing as looking up at a purple night sky.

The silhouette further reflects Morant’s story as a person and a player: It’s about his roots, his connection to the next generation, and how his drive to get up after getting knocked down can inspire us all.

Similar influences extend to the Ja 2 apparel collection, which speaks to Morant’s personal style, swagger, and connection to youth culture through energetic, artistic prints on his signature fleece hoodie and pants.

In a nod to Morant’s widespread influence on the game, his second signature silhouette will include kids’ sizes, and his fleece hoodie and pants will be available in extended sizes.

“In Nike Basketball, we get to work with the world’s best athletes, help them be even better on the court, and create a canvas to tell stories. We are excited for the world to wear the Ja 2 and to continue to be inspired by his growth and electric style of play,” says Josh Wachtel, VP/GM, Global Men’s Basketball. “The Ja 2 gives hoopers everything they need — it’s bouncy, fast, stable, looks great, and is available in kids’ sizes to serve the next generation.”

The Nike Ja 2 will be available on SNKRS and in select markets on September 26. The silhouette and apparel collection will be available globally at nike.com and select retailers on October 8.

Jordan Brand’s New Tatum 3 Delivers a Lightweight Feel and Adaptable Performance

A gold medal. A championship ring. A hunger for more.

After winning on the greatest stages in the game this summer, Jayson Tatum is back for another NBA season—ready to rise to the occasion in his latest signature shoe, the Jordan Tatum 3.

The new, court-ready silhouette has all the features fit for a champion while delivering unmatched style and continuing the Tatum series’ reign as the lightest in the Jordan Brand basketball collection.

“I don’t take having a signature shoe for granted,” Jayson says. “I’m grateful to be in a position where I can co-create with Jordan Brand and have fans connect with me through my shoe. My favourite part of the 3s is the way they take on colour, so my hope is that we inspire and energise a lot of people through the colourway storytelling.”

The Tatum 3 is the result of Jayson’s extensive collaboration with Jordan Brand’s footwear designers, who met his needs with a shoe that feels broken in right out of the box and adapts to the foot without restrictions or pressure. A new upper incorporates insights from athletes’ on-court moves in the Nike Sport Research Lab, layering materials where they matter most for power and comfort, creating a supportive, conforming fit without feeling bulky or stiff.

Cushion 3.0 foam and a Zoom Air insert work alongside the upper’s firm frame to promote lateral movements that feel smooth and secure, and a herringbone traction pattern propels a superior first step and quick cut while helping hoopers stop on a dime.

The smoothness of Jayson’s play and his commitment to his family are built into the Tatum 3, reflected in fluid lines that represent his uninterrupted approach to the game and the foundation of his family tree. Like the Tatum 2, the name of Jayson’s son, Deuce, is featured on the inside of the tongue, opposite his signature JT logo, and his number 0 is included on the heel along with unique sayings on the heel tabs, specific to each colourway. His popular “Find a Way” quote from his 2023 “humbly” interview is also included on the medial side of the shoe.

The launch colourway, Welcome to the Garden, showcases growth in all areas of Jayson’s life—his family, his game, and his pursuit of greatness—in a floral pattern that nods to his home and personal garden, where he’s surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones.

Jayson first unveiled the new silhouette via the NBA 2K25 cover and during his summer tour of China, where he teamed up with fellow Jordan Brand athletes Luka Dončić, Zion Williamson, and Paolo Banchero to connect with local youth and foster their love for the game.

The Tatum 3 will be available globally on Jordan.com and select retailers on October 10.

 

 

Nike and the LEGO Group Unite to Elevate the Power of Sport and Creative Play

What to know

  • Through a new multi-year partnership, Nike and the LEGO Group will bring to life the many ways sport and creative play can help all kids be the best versions of themselves.

  • Families around the globe could see a series of co-branded products, content and experiences beginning next year that combine the imaginative power of LEGO bricks with Nike’s “Just Do It” spirit to invite all kids into play and sport.

  • The partnership reflects Nike and the LEGO Group’s shared commitment to put creativity, fun, sport and imagination back into play, and inspire, engage and empower kids around the world.

NIKE, Inc. and the LEGO Group are proud to announce a multi-year partnership that will celebrate sport and creative play, creating new and exciting opportunities for kids and families worldwide.

With long histories of championing kids’ right to play, both brands know that creative and physical outlets are critical to children’s development — helping kids reach their full potential by fostering key life skills that allow them to thrive as they grow up.

Beginning next year, families around the globe could see a series of co-branded products, content, and experiences that combine the imaginative power of LEGO bricks with Nike’s “Just Do It” spirit to invite all kids into play and sport.

“At Nike, we believe in the power of sport to move the world forward, and that starts with kids,” says Cal Dowers, VP, Global Kids. “We’re committed to creating a more accessible and inclusive future that inspires kids of all ages and abilities to be more active. Together, with the LEGO Group, we’re excited to invite all kids into a new vision of sport and creative play.”

A recent LEGO Group study revealed that for a third of children globally, playtime is limited to just three hours a week, and according to the World Health Organization, only one in five kids gets the physical activity they need to thrive. Further, 59% of parents who participated in a separate LEGO Group survey indicated they worry their children don’t have enough playtime or access to fun activities.

This initiative marks Nike’s latest effort to power an active, inclusive world that inspires all youth to play and achieve their greatest potential. Nike focuses on breaking down barriers for youth, especially girls, through a focus on quality coaching, increasing access, and addressing societal barriers. And now, Nike and LEGO are teaming up to create new opportunities for kids.

The partnership reflects Nike and the LEGO Group’s shared commitment to put creativity, fun, sport, and imagination back into play, and inspire, engage, and empower kids around the world.

“At the LEGO Group, we believe in the power of play to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow,” says Alero Akuya, VP of Brand Development at the LEGO Group. “By combining the creativity of LEGO play with the energy and passion of sport, we want to inspire new ways for kids to play and be creative. We are excited to partner with NIKE, Inc. on this journey and help reimagine how creative play and sport can unite. Together, we will create unique experiences that will engage and excite kids around the world, inspiring them to explore their imaginations.”

For more information about the partnership, visit nike.com/lego or lego.com/nike.

EO-Executive Optical Welcomes its Newest Endorsers — Donny and Anthony Pangilinan

A father-son tandem is on a mission to start their year with better vision and to influence people about the importance of investing in high-quality eyewear and eye care services

For Father’s Day, EO-Executive Optical has unveiled actor Donny and motivational speaker Anthony Pangilinan as their new brand ambassadors.
A lot of people want to work with Donny and Anthony because of their fame via advertising, TV shows, and social media. They exude an infectiously upbeat vibe thanks to their captivating personalities and outstanding storytelling skills. As a result, their charismatic and approachable personalities influence the entertainment industry.

EO-Executive Optical thinks the father-and-son team will be great ambassadors for the brand since they embody the principles and family values that the company stands for. By working together in such a natural and engaging way, they boost EO-Executive Optical’s reputation and encourage people to value family and be themselves.

 

 

BingoPlus Delivers A Successful Partnership With Miss Universe Philippines 2024

BingoPlus, your comprehensive entertainment platform in the country and provider of your favorite online tongits, bingo, and perya games, delivered a fun-filled and truly entertaining year for the pageant scene in the country as the brand successfully presented Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) 2024.

This year, BingoPlus stands as the MUPH lead presentor, which allows the brand to bring in significant events for the pageant throughout the whole competition, making it enjoyable not only for the queens and the organizations but for all supporters across Filipino communities.

Among these activities were the press conference held at LimaPark Hotel Batangas City, the MUPH house visit to BingoPlus at Bonifacio Global City and BingoPlus Studio in Quezon City, Sponsors Night and the Preliminary Night at the Manila Hotel, and the Grand Coronation Night at the Mall of Asia Arena.

For BingoPlus, the partnership with Empireph Holdings Inc. has been monumental in promoting its advocacies in nurturing culture and communities, expanding efforts in the protection of rich biodiversity, and creating safe spaces and opportunities for wellness. The brand also ensured that its programs empowered women by launching its #GandaPlus campaign, which aimed to provide a platform for queens and fans to express their definition of beauty and purpose, ensuring a diverse and limitless meaning of beauty.

BingoPlus in the Grand Coronation Night

BingoPlus and MUPH made this year’s competition more fun and exciting with the titles and special awards given to the queens, while recognizing their pillars above to advocate social and community growth.

Joining the panel of judges this year was DigiPlus Interactive Corporation Chairman Eusebio Tanco. Meanwhile, DigiPlus Interactive Corporation President Andy Tsui and AB Leisure Exponent Inc. President Rafael Jasper Vicencio awarded BingoPlus’ Miss BingoPlus Universe 2024 to Miss Nueva Ecija Maica Martinez with a cash prize of PHP 250,000.00.

The night also highlighted the works and programs of the BingoPlus Foundation, providing significant insight into the pivotal impact of the foundation on communities through its programs in education and technology, access to healthcare, community safety and resilience, and responsible digitalization.

Winning the night was Miss Bulacan Chelsea Anne Manalo who was crowned Miss Universe 2024, followed by 1st runner-up Miss Cainta Stacey Daniella Gabriel, 2nd runner-up Miss Quezon Province Maria Ahtisa Manalo, who was also crowned Miss Philippines Cosmo International 2024, 3rd runner-up and Miss Philippines Supranational 2025 Justine Tarah Marie Valencia from Baguio, and 4th runner-up Christi Lynn McGarry from Taguig.

Additionally, Alexie Mae Brooks of Iloilo City was appointed as Miss Philippines Eco International 2025, while Miss Pampanga Cyrille Payumo was named Miss Philippines Charm 2025.

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo

In an exclusive interview, Miss Universe 2024 Chelsea Manalo shared her excitement after winning the title.

“Right now, I feel really ecstatic; it’s still surreal to me that I have actually won Miss Universe Philippines 2024. But I know that there are so many great things that will come my way. And because of this, I’m ready to take the opportunity to work well with the organization and, of course, to better work with the purpose that is really close to my heart.”

Manalo also shared the importance of the Miss Universe Philippines platform in pursuit of her advocacy for youth empowerment and education.

“It’s really important to be Miss Universe Philippines 2024 because this will open so many opportunities for me to work with the purpose that is close to my heart, which is youth empowerment through the education of the indigenous people. And I know I can better help them reach a little bit closer to their dreams.”

She also shared her fond memory with BingoPlus, “This was when we went to shoot in Batangas. It was a little bit of a time to get away as a candidate, but you know, to be with my sisters and to shoot with the brand.”

Manalo also described her BingoPlus journey with 3-bingo letters.

“B, beautiful. You know that experience is really, really beautiful. I don’t think there’s anything else I would ever trade at this moment right now. I, I know I have come a long way through so many things that have happened in my life, and because of that, I can really see how independent I have become to be where I am right now. And O, because I know that this is the opportunity that I am waiting for in my life.”

Meanwhile, Miss Universe Philippines 1st runner-up Stacey Gabriel gave advice to the aspiring queens. “Know that you have everything that you need within you to conquer the universe. I believe in you, so I hope you believe in you too.”

Miss Universe 2nd runner-up Maria Ahtisa Manalo added that knowing your purpose is your core to surviving the competition.

“I think you know the purpose of why you are joining a beauty pageant. It is very important for you to know your purpose and the reason why you are doing it. It is very important to know your core so that you’d be able to stick by that and survive the pageant world.”

Manalo ended the interview after expressing her gratitude to BingoPlus and said, “Thank you so much BingoPlus for bringing this opportunity. I know that this will commend me and all of the other ladies here. It doesn’t stop here. Thank you so much!”

Miss BingoPlus Universe 2024

BingoPlus ensures a fun-filled and truly entertaining experience for MUPH. This year, BingoPlus awarded the title of Miss Universe BingoPlus 2024, a special title given to the queen with the most online votes, an express ticket to the final 20 and a cash prize of Php250,000.00. The title was given to Miss Universe Nueva Ecija Maica Martinez.

In an exclusive interview, Martinez expressed her gratitude after knowing she had won the award. “I am so grateful because, technically, I won the first title tonight, and I’m so proud to be Miss BingoPlus Universe 2024. And I’m so grateful to all who supported me all throughout this year.”

Martinez also recalled her experience with BingoPlus, “My memorable experience with BingoPlus was when we visited the BingoPlus office. I’m so happy because I received so much love and support from my BingoPlus family. We received flowers and messages from them that helped us boost our morale and really pump up our journey to the universe.”

In addition, Martinez described her MUPH journey as inspiring, empowering, and transformational. Her journey with MUPH made her realize that dreaming is limitless, and so we must continue to dream bigger.

She also expressed her gratitude for the support from her hometown and to BingoPlus.

“To my family and friends all around the world, thank you very much! This is not only my success; this is the success of the entire Nueva Ecija.

To BingoPlus, thank you so much for this wonderful title. I can’t wait to contribute to the BingoPlus family and, at the same time, to work hand-in-hand, especially with the BingoPlus foundation. Laging panalo at masaya sa BingoPlus! ”

BingoPlus #PurpleLuckPurpleLove and #GandaPlus

The MUPH excitement extended not only to the candidates but also to everyone. BingoPlus launched the #PurpleLuckPurleLove summer campaign, wherein the brand gave away prizes like MUPH VIP tickets, an iPhone 15 Plus, and cash prizes. This is to ensure that, aside from quality and top-tier entertainment, the brand provides everyone with a chance to win prizes that add fun and enjoyment anytime and anywhere.

Along with this, BingoPlus launched the #GandaPlus online campaign, which aimed to provide a platform for queens and fans to express their definition of beauty and purpose, ensuring a diverse and limitless meaning of beauty. Fans were encouraged to share their #GandaPlus stories through video stitching and uploads posted to their social media accounts on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Netizens were also encouraged to mark their #GandaPlus traits on our customized #GandaPlus bingo card. Ten (10) winners of Php 20,000.00 were given away, plus an exclusive dinner with Miss Universe winners.

The success of Miss Universe Philippines 2024 is part of BingoPlus’ commitment to the entertainment and leisure industry of the Philippines, embracing all forms of enjoyment that have become important fixtures in Philippine culture. The brand’s partnership with MUPH is an opportunity for it to operate on a level that encompasses a wider range of what “leisure and enjoyment” mean to Filipinos, ensuring the experience is both accessible and memorable.

DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and BingoPlus Poker, with more to come. BingoPlus is a leading platform for various forms of entertainment for Filipinos where players can explore tongits, bingo, perya games and many other game choices to have fun at home. For more information, visit: www.bingoplus.com or download the app now from App store and Google Play.

Expert from Herbalife Discusses How the Strength of Community Can Support Individuals in Achieving Their Health and Wellness Objectives

The year began with an informative presentation by Dr. Luigi Gratton, Herbalife’s VP of Training, at Herbalife Philippines. The presentation centred on Herbalife’s Global Nutrition Philosophy, which advocates for a comprehensive approach to health using a well-rounded diet, consistent physical activity, and social support to sustain these practices.

To help people achieve their health and wellness objectives for the new year, Dr. Gratton discussed the most recent research in the field of nutrition science and how to harness the power of the community.

“The main thing we have seen in the latest literature is that restricting calories leads to losing weight along with a tremendous amount of muscle,” Dr. Gratton added, touching on the importance of protein-rich, low-calorie diets as integral instruments for ensuring general health. But you can stop muscle loss in its tracks by eating more protein. You may keep your health and vitality as you age by keeping that muscle mass.

The findings of Herbalife’s Asia Pacific Power of Community Survey 2023, which Dr. Gratton also brought out, demonstrated the importance of community support in assisting individuals in reaching their long-term health objectives.

According to the poll, 83% of consumers in the APAC region are trying to improve their health and wellness. Among this group, 51% consider support groups to be extremely helpful since they offer inspiration and connections to a wider range of health-related information and services.

“We have long believed in the power of community to help people achieve their wellness goals,” said Allan Domingo, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines. In partnership with our distributors, who not only distribute our nutrition products but also offer their clients unwavering support, motivation, encouragement, and accountability, we are committed to empowering more individuals to lead active, healthy lives that are nourished by quality nutrition.

To help its customers reach their holistic wellness objectives, Herbalife provides them with the knowledge, food, and support they need. Visit https://www.herbalife.com/en-ph for more details.

Regarding Herbalife Ltd.

An industry leader in health and wellbeing, Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) has been transforming people’s lives through the provision of exceptional nutritional goods and a chance for its autonomous distributors since the year 1980. Using items supported by research, the company caters to consumers in over 90 regions via enterprising distributors that offer personalized services by providing one-on-one coaching and a welcoming community that encourages its members to make positive lifestyle changes and live a healthier, more active way of life.