LaMelo Ball has the opportunity to make it to the NBA playoffs for the first time in his career if his Charlotte Hornets defeat the Orlando Magic Thursday night, and when it comes time to suit up he’ll have a new build of his latest signature sneaker to choose from.
The Puma MB.05 Lo is a lower-cut version of Ball’s current signature sneaker but doesn’t stop at merely reducing the height. While maintaining the same sole unit, the upper has been entirely rebuilt for this iteration. A reengineered mesh upper improves breathability and stability with a cutout that sees its laces extend much wider and lower than on a typical basketball sneaker. This system also involves a tongue that’s raised rather than sitting lower than the rest of the upper and goes without the crisscross straps used on the regular MB.05
A grungy aesthetic is maintained through the patterns and markings, which includes a new alien logo at the heel. For its debut, the MB.05 Lo arrives in a tonal mix of bright greens dubbed “Flourish.”
Ball’s Puma line continues to grow, as outside of the performance basketball shoes he now has two lifestyle models under the LaFrance banner. Puma also recently mashed up each of his first four signature sneakers for the MB.01234 for one of the wider-reaching hybrids you’ll ever see.
The Puma MB.05 Lo “Flourish” will release May 15 through Puma’s website, app and NYC flagship, as well as select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $120, which is $10 cheaper than the baseline MB.05.
Puma MB.05 Lo “Flourish” (pair)
Puma MB.05 Lo “Flourish” (lateral)
Puma MB.05 Lo “Flourish” (medial)
Puma MB.05 Lo “Flourish” (above and outsole)
