This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
He may have had a shoe mishap the other night but Indiana Pacers swingman Lance Stephenson believes he should be the “shoe champion” of the NBA this season.
Talking to reporters on Wednesday, Stephenson first gave a bit more explanation as to why his Nike Zoom Huarache 2k4 KB came apart in Indiana’s 110-100 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday.
Lance Stephenson on his 14-year-old shoes falling apart against the Lakers: "Kobe, don't get mad at me for wearing your shoe and messing it up. I was told not to wear it and I still wore it."
The #Pacers and #Pelicans play tonight on FSI and FSGO. pic.twitter.com/O6t06PN79h— Bally Sports Indiana (@BallySportsIN) March 21, 2018
“They were made in 2004 and weren’t [supposed] to be played in,” Stephenson said. “I took it upon myself because it was such a good shoe. I didn’t think it was going to break or nothing. Kobe [Bryant], don’t get mad at me for wearing your shoe and messing it up. I was told not to wear it and I still wore it.”
Stephenson then told reporters that because he has worn so many different and unique sneakers this season, he is hoping that he wins “shoe champion” — or Kicks on Court champion — of the year. The Pacers forward did acknowledge that he may have difficulty winning this unofficial award as Rockets forward P.J. Tucker will likely claim the honor.