LaMelo Ball’s Next Puma Signature Sneaker Has Already Leaked
LaMelo Ball’s Puma MB.04 is still just a few months into its lifespan, but leaks have already given a glance at its successor.
A first look at the Puma MB.05 has been revealed by the Hong Kong-based leaker @sneakerhighway23. Seven total colorways were shown in the photo, and the standout feature for Ball’s forthcoming sneaker is a set of straps that intersect over the tongue, extend well back toward the heel and stick out into the air. Two distinct shapes can be seen across the seven colorways, as the straps take the form of either wings or flame tips.
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And as should come as no surprise at this point, there’s no shortage of vibrancy among the colorways, as the lot includes two pink variants along with one in cotton candy blue and purple and another dominated by highlighter yellow.
Ball’s current signature sneaker, the MB.04, just launched launched in September and is defined by a complex “5D printed” upper intended to suggest alien tentacles. It boasts a nitrogen-infused foam midsole and a number of flourishes for Ball that include the phrases, “Not From Here,” “To Be Melo Is to Be Yourself, “Lover” and “One of One.”
Still just 23 years old, Ball has seen Gen Z take strongly to his signature line. Allison Giorgio, Puma vice president of marketing for North America, told Footwear News in March that Ball’s three models that had released at the time had been among the brand’s best sellers. StockX also reported the MB.02 as the third top-selling basketball sneaker on the platform, behind only the Nike Ja 1 and Nike LeBron 20.
“We’re very lucky to work with [Ball]. He’s an incredibly powerful player for Gen Z, mostly because he’s got this dynamic play on-court and a unique sense of personal style and leverage of fashion off-court,” Giorgio said.
The MB.05 is still some time away from releasing, with a likely launch date to come in early fall 2025. Footwear News will keep you abreast of any updates.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
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