[SPONSORED] ESSENCE Debuts ‘The Strongest’ To Celebrate LeBron James’s 16th Nike Sneaker Release

LeBron James is a certified king of the court, but he never hesitates to celebrate the beautiful talent of Black queens. For his 16th Nike shoe release, the four-time NBA champion commissioned Harlem Fashion Row’s Brandice Daniel, Fe Noel, Kimberly Goldson and Undra Celeste to conceive and execute the artistic vision of the newly released footwear. As a nod to the FIRST ever LeBron signature shoe designed for women by women, ESSENCE presents The Strongest, a social campaign uplifting 16 inspiring actresses, executives, journalists, athletes, and entertainers— as well as James’ mother, wife, and daughter—who exemplify unwavering strength to the media mogul. James wants to continuously use his platform to be a voice for not only the women in his life but also women everywhere. “I see you,” he says to Black women, who he believes are the strongest people in the world. “I hear you.” In collaboration with Nike, ESSENCE shot a series of powerfully moving images of these phenomenal ladies to showcase courage, dignity, loyalty, and determination. Flip through the gallery to get your life and meet “The 16”! Join the conversation @ESSENCE via Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter and use hashtag #STRONGEST to show off photos of the strong women in your own life.