Vince Carter’s Classic Shox BB4 'Black/Lapis' Returns This Fall

One of the defining basketball shoes of the early 2000s is headed back to shelves. The Nike Shox BB4 OG 'Black/Lapis' returns in Fall 2026, marking the first reissue of the iconic colorway since its 2019 retro.

Forever linked to Vince Carter, the Shox BB4 became one of Nike Basketball's most recognizable silhouettes during the Y2K era. The shoe gained legendary status thanks to Carter's electrifying style of play and unforgettable moments while wearing the model, helping establish Shox technology as one of Nike's boldest innovations.

The returning colorway stays true to the original 2000 release. Black leather covers the toe, tongue, and eyestays, while Metallic Silver dominates the side panels and heel. Lapis blue accents appear throughout the midsole and extend down to the four exposed Shox columns, giving the sneaker its signature futuristic look.

Additional details include the dotted graphics around the forefoot and midfoot, another hallmark element carried over from the original design. These small touches help preserve the shoe's distinctive visual identity while maintaining the same appearance that made it a standout over two decades ago.

Designed by legendary Nike creator Eric Avar, the Shox BB4 drew inspiration from space exploration, rocket ships, and astronaut suits. Those influences are immediately recognizable through the rounded upper, metallic finishes, and mechanical heel construction. At a time when Nike Basketball was pushing boundaries with experimental silhouettes, the Shox BB4 stood out as one of the brand's most daring creations.

Of course, the shoe's defining feature remains the exposed Shox cushioning system. The four spring-like columns beneath the heel delivered a look unlike anything else on the market and quickly became synonymous with Vince Carter's explosive athleticism. Even today, the visible pillars remain one of the most recognizable design elements in basketball footwear history.

As nostalgia for early-2000s basketball sneakers continues to grow, the return of the 'Black/Lapis' colorway gives longtime fans a chance to revisit a classic while introducing a new generation to one of Nike's most memorable performance models.

The Nike Shox BB4 OG 'Black/Lapis' releases on August 28, 2026, and retail for $190 USD.