The Kentucky men’s basketball program just laced up a fresh chapter in its storied history, and this one comes with a denim twist. On Tuesday night, the Wildcats officially introduced the Nike Book Chapter 2 “Must Be the Denim” sneakers - a signature shoe from former UK standout and current NBA star Devin Booker.
But this isn’t just another player-branded release. This pair is a tribute - a denim-draped nod to Kentucky’s legendary 1996 national championship team and the iconic uniforms that helped define that era.
This Saturday, Lexington becomes the epicenter of sneaker culture and Wildcat nostalgia. From 2 to 8 p.m.
ET, fans can head to The Studio at Rupp Arena - right in the heart of Big Blue Nation - for an exclusive early launch of the Nike Book 2 “Must Be the Denim.” It’s a one-day-only drop, and the buzz is already building.
The timing couldn’t be more fitting. This year marks the 30th anniversary of that ’96 title run - a team that didn’t just win, but dominated, and did it in unforgettable style. The denim-themed uniforms from that squad have become the stuff of college basketball lore, and Booker, who made his own mark in Lexington before becoming a star in the pros, is bridging past and present with this release.
The sneaker itself is a celebration of that legacy. Featuring a bold blue denim colorway, a Wildcat graphic, and “Book” stitched on the back, the Nike Book 2 is more than just footwear - it’s a statement. It’s a wearable piece of Kentucky basketball history.
The launch event, dubbed “The Book 2 Fair,” promises to be more than just a sneaker release. It’s a full-on immersive experience designed to tap into the deep-rooted pride and passion that defines Kentucky basketball. From interactive photo ops and archival newspaper displays to a full denim-themed takeover of the space, fans will be stepping into a tribute to both Booker’s time in Lexington and the program’s rich tradition.
And yes, there’s a little something extra for those who snag a pair - each purchase comes with an exclusive denim notebook, a small but thoughtful nod to the theme.
For those who can’t make it to the Studio at Rupp, two Hibbett Sports locations in Lexington - one on W. New Circle Road and the other on Richmond Road - will also have limited pairs available for purchase on Saturday, February 7.
But once they’re gone, they’re gone. This is a Lexington-only release ahead of the broader retail launch in March, and it’s clear that exclusivity is part of the appeal.
It’s also a community moment. Hibbett and Nike have partnered to make this release more than just a commercial drop. It’s about celebrating a player who once wore the Kentucky blue, honoring a championship team that left a permanent mark on the sport, and giving fans a chance to relive a golden era - through sneakers.
And in a fitting display of team pride, both the current men’s and women’s basketball teams, along with members of the 30th Anniversary Wildcat Alumni Team, will be sporting the new kicks at the event. It’s a visual reminder that while eras change, the Kentucky basketball legacy keeps rolling - and now it’s doing so in denim.