2023 certainly seems to be the year for Penny Hardaway. With recent news that his PE Air Foamposite One is gearing up for a release in February, news has now emerged via Complex that an Air Max Penny 1 inspired by Hardaway’s alma mater, Lester Middle School, is on the cards for the Swoosh brand.

Besides playing for Lester Middle in his youth, the four-time NBA All-Star returned as a coach after his NBA playing career, before embarking on his current position as the head coach of the Memphis Tigers, also his college alma mater. Based off early mockups, the Air Max Penny 1 is dressed in Lester Middle’s colors, which features a tri-color palette of yellow, black and white.

However, while it draws inspiration from the school’s colors, it will not be an actual collaboration with Hardaway’s former school. Through an inquiry by Complex, a Nike spokesperson has clarified that the upcoming sneaker will only be referred to as an “Air Max Penny” instead of bearing the name of Lester Middle School as do most other official collaborations.

While release details are scanty at the moment, you can expect this Air Max Penny 1 to arrive somewhere in Fall this year, at a retail price of US$180. Stay tuned as we’ll bring you the latest updates as soon we as get them.

In other sneaker-related news, take a first look at the new Air Jordan 7 “White Infrared”.