Adidas Originals links with Wales Bonner for AW25 capsule celebrating Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

In the 1970s, adidas and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar inked their partnership with one of basketball’s first signature sneakers “and in the process changed the sporting landscape forever”. Fast forward to today and it’s time for a refresh with the German sportswear giant collaborating with UK-based designer Grace Wales Bonner for an extra-special capsule collection. 

For autumn/winter 2025, ‘Adidas Originals by Wales Bonner’ “writes a new chapter in the storied relationship”, honouring Abdul-Jabbar’s legacy with a collection crafted in the designer’s “quintessentially considered style”.

The collection channels “the cultural icon’s inimitable style, bringing back Abdul-Jabbar’s signature on-court move ‘the sky hook’ as a consistent logoed motif”. 

A track top features embroidered dragon artwork in homage to his acting career and is accompanied by matching premium track pants. A tank top and shorts celebrate basketball heritage, while a two-pack of long socks are delivered in colours reminiscent of Abdul-Jabbar’s two professional teams.

The footwear offer sees Wales Bonner bring back the Adidas Jabbar silhouette in colours with a deep connection to his sporting and artistic career. The WB Jabbar Lo recontextualises the 70s sneaker with a full suede upper, three stripes with alternating colours, and gold foil sky hook artwork on the tongue.

Captured by photographer Oliver Hadlee Pearch, the accompanying campaign “amplifies Abdul-Jabbar’s legacy through storytelling and aesthetics synonymous with Wales Bonner”. 

Inspired by classic portraiture, model Jecardi Sykes “embodies the spirit of the icon”, with elements in each photo “speaking directly to Abdul-Jabbar’s history and personal style”. 

The images are then interspersed with archival clips and direct quotes in a short film punctuated with Jazz, in honour of both the genre’s cultural impact and Abdul-Jabbar’s personal love for its rhythm.

The Adidas Originals by Wales Bonner Jabbar collection is available globally now at adidas.com, via Confirmed, and through select retailers.