Hip hop and basketball have always been a match made in culture heaven, and now Reebok and adidas are taking that connection to new heights with the release of their hotly anticipated “Damenosis” collaboration.
This project brings together two colossal icons—Shaquille O’Neal and Damian Lillard—for a footwear collection that celebrates not just their prowess on the court, but also their shared passion for music.
Launching globally on October 19, “Damenosis” features two stand-out sneakers: Reebok’s Shaqnosis and adidas’ Dame 7 EXPLY “Damenosis.” You can find them on Reebok.com, adidas.com, and at select local retailers.
A Crossover for the Ages
This isn’t the first time Reebok and adidas have teamed up on a basketball release. In summer 2020, they brought together legendary guards Allen Iverson and James Harden for a special hoops collaboration.
Now, the focus shifts to Shaq and Dame—two players from different eras who both happen to have rap careers on their résumés. O’Neal famously released a certified platinum album, while Lillard’s love of hip hop has fuelled several of his own music projects.
The ‘Damenosis’ Concept
The idea behind “Damenosis” is all about synergy: blending Reebok’s classic Shaqnosis design with adidas’ Dame 7 EXPLY silhouette.
O’Neal’s fifth signature shoe with Reebok, first introduced in 1995, was a groundbreaking statement proving that “big men can sell sneakers.”
Meanwhile, the Dame 7 EXPLY line is inspired by Lillard’s grit on the hardwood and his creative expression off the court.
In an interview with Lillard, Shaq recalled the doubts that dogged big men in the 1990s. “I came in the era where the statement was made that big guys can’t sell shoes,” he said.
“So when Reebok gave me my first opportunity, I just wanted to represent for the big guys.” Lillard, who thrives on forging his own path, called it “a special honor” to see his Dame line mesh with the Shaqnosis legacy.
Where Style Meets Story
Each version of the new footwear is like its own musical track. The Dame 7 EXPLY “Damenosis” comes wrapped in Shaq’s iconic black-and-white spiral colorway, while Reebok’s Shaqnosis nods to Lillard’s signature style with distinctive detailing and splashes of colour.
And, in a nod to Shaq’s larger-than-life persona, there’s even a subtle fade on the upper evoking his classic “Shaq Fu” hat image.
Beyond basketball, both shoes pay tribute to a creative spark that unites O’Neal and Lillard as musical talents, proving that you can be a superstar in more than one arena.
Where to Buy
Priced at $150 USD for Reebok’s Shaqnosis (GX2609) and similarly for adidas’ Dame 7 EXPLY “Damenosis,” the collection will be available from October 19 on Reebok.com and adidas.com, along with select local retailers.
Whether you’re a die-hard hoops fan or just love a splash of hip hop flair, “Damenosis” offers a fresh way to celebrate two legendary ballers—and their undeniable imprint on sneaker culture.