Luka Doncic Camaro: How Did the Mavs Star Pay Tribute to Michael Jordan Through His Special Entrance vs Clippers?

Luka Doncic recreated a Michael Jordan moment ahead of Game 3 against the LA Clippers. Notably, the Dallas Mavericks star made an entrance in his recently modified ’68 Camaro. The way he entered and was greeted by security guards rocking special Jordan security jackets drew parallels with MJ’s entry in his Ferrari 512 TR before Game 5 against the New York Knicks in the 1992 Eastern Conference Semifinals.

However, there was more to this entry that had Michael Jordan written all over it. It is worth mentioning that the Jordan brand recently customized Doncic’s 68 Camaro. They wrapped the car in a “Midnight Racer” theme — inspired by Doncic’s new Jordan Luka 3 sneaker colorway. This color scheme showcases blends of pink and purple with some touch of mint. Notably, the sneakers made their debut on the court for the first time in today’s game against the Clippers.

Doncic’s Camaro: An inspiration for his latest sneakers

Every NBA fan is aware of Michael Jordan’s love for sports cars and it seems Doncic too carries this feeling for cars with him. As per an article by footwear and NBA marketing writer Nick DePaula, it was this passion of the Mavs star that acted as an inspiration for his latest Jordan Luka 3. The article states that Doncic’s ’68 Camaro specifically served as the genesis point of the idea behind sneakers.

This concept first came into play back in 1991 when Michael Jordan’s Air Jordan VI featured a Porsche-inspired spoiler on the heel of the sneakers. Mike’s Air Jordan XIV, released back in 1998, also boasted a Ferrari-inspired design. This automotive-inspired line of sneakers continued with Air Jordan XX1, XX3, and many more. And now even Luka Doncic has got something similar for himself.

“Sometimes after games, I just drive — it helps me think clearly… So, yeah, this shoe is inspired by that (Camaro). Makes me feel calm, focused … ready for whatever’s next,” Doncic told DePaula. So it makes sense that the Jordan brand team chose the inspiration behind the sneakers for promotion.

Getting a closer look at Jordan Luka 3 sneakers

This collaboration between Doncic and Michael Jordan’s brand is keeping the sneakers aligned with the Mavs star’s playing style. Therefore, Jordan Luka 3 is likely to emphasize on quick changes of direction and powerful drives to the basket. Reports also hint that this iteration of Jordan sneakers will feature a wider yet lighter design. The Boardroom article by DePaula states that as per inputs received from Doncic and his coach Jason Kidd, the sneakers are an ounce lighter than the second model.

Furthermore, the outsole of the Luka 3 sneakers will boast a herringbone traction pattern. The sneakers will incorporate a full-length Cushlon 3.0 foam in the sole. Both these features have been consistent with the Jordan sneakers for quite some time now. In terms of colorway, the “midnight racer” theme sneakers include pink and purple with some touch of mint. On the other hand, the “Photo Finish” version of the sneakers includes shades of neon, orange, and pink.

It is worth mentioning that Doncic has also expressed his admiration for the Jordan Luka 3 as he states, “When I first saw the Luka 3 on screen, I liked it a lot… It felt very futuristic. When I finally got to hold it … even better”. Notably, the shoes’ “Midnight Racer” version will most likely hit the market in the first week of July. However, the “Photo Finish” variant of the sneakers is scheduled for a mid-July release via Nike and select retailers. According to the reports, Doncic’s appearance in the Paris Olympics, where he will represent the Slovenian team sponsored by Michael Jordan himself, will introduce additional color variants of the sneakers.