Product of California, Kevin Johnson exploded onto the national scene after being traded by the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Phoenix Suns early on in his career.? In his first full season as a Sun he would emerge as one of the top point guards in the league averaging 20.4 points per game along with 12.2 assists per game, taking home the league’s Most Improved Player Award.? Johnson made a name for himself as one of the first true point guards that could not only set up teammates but finish above the rim.? KJ retired after the 97-98 season but returned for the playoffs in 2000 to fill in for injured star Jason Kidd.? While Johnson’s playing days are now over he has continued to be a success off the court as he was recently elected governor of Sacramento.
Nike was the first brand to outfit Johnson as a pro.?? Early on he was spotted wearing the Nike Air Flight ’89, Nike’s guard shoe at the time that drew inspiration from the Air Jordan 4.? After becoming a household name Johnson signed an endorsement deal with Converse where he would become the face of the brand alongside Larry Johnson.? KJ’s signature shoes would feature React Juice cushioning and be released in Sun’s colorways.? His famed Run n Slam line has been used as of late by Converse as inspiration for their current guard shoes worn by the likes of Jameer Nelson and Kirk Hinrich.
| Nike Air Flight ’89 1989
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Converse Run n Slam 1993
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Converse React Pandemonium 1994
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| Converse RAW Energy 1995
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Converse Hall of Fame 1996
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