Saquon Barkley returns to New York for Complex Sneaker Shopping, mapping how NFL players build influence beyond the field. He riffs on Odell Beckham Jr.’s role in igniting cleat culture, nods to LeBron James’ impact on his own footwear, and details a high‑end haul from a single shopping trip that underscores the intersection of style, branding, and fantasy relevance. The piece also spotlights the Eagles’ locker‑room heat with Hurts, Brown, and Smith fueling weekly sneaker drops, while Barkley discusses his Nike connection and the Travis Scott collaboration that helped shape his own trainer line. The overall thread ties fashion and performance, hinting at how off‑field branding can ripple into marketability and Dynasty or Keeper fantasy value.

From Barkley’s perspective, the sneaker scene isn’t just a hobby; it’s part of a larger brand ecosystem that bleeds into on‑field confidence and media visibility. OBJ’s influence is framed as the spark, LeBron’s backing a strategic ally, and Nike storefront access a potential halo effect for Barkley’s status and leverage with sponsors. The piece ends by cataloging Barkley’s notable purchases, a cross‑section of modern kicks tied to New York and Philly lore, and a reminder that culture and commerce often drive the fantasy landscape as much as yards and targets.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, fresh off a historic season where he secured MVP honors and led the Oklahoma City Thunder to an NBA title, hosted a youth basketball camp in Toronto. The camp not only showcased his leadership but also featured the legendary Allen Iverson, a significant figure for many players who grew up idolizing him. Gilgeous-Alexander has often expressed admiration for Iverson, citing their similar playing styles and the impact both have on aspiring young players.

This summer marks a pivotal moment for Gilgeous-Alexander as he prepares to defend his championship title with the Thunder. With his accolades including MVP and Finals MVP, he represents a new generation in the NBA, blending modern skill sets with the influence of past legends like Iverson.

Allen Iverson, a Philadelphia 76ers legend, stands as an iconic figure in basketball history. Despite being only 6 feet tall, he dominated the court, averaging 27.6 points and 6.1 assists during his 12-year career with the Sixers. He won the MVP award in 2001 and showcased extraordinary talent, especially in leading the 2000-01 team to the NBA Finals.

Ranked No. 36 on Bleacher Report’s all-time greats list, Iverson’s legacy transcends statistics; his cultural impact and playing style left a significant mark. His No. 3 jersey is retired by the Sixers, a testament to his contributions and influence on the game.

The Philadelphia 76ers, a franchise known for its tumultuous history, has seen a rollercoaster of success and struggles in the 21st century. Following a strong playoff presence, where they made seven consecutive appearances from 2017 to 2024, fans have witnessed both highs and lows, particularly during the unseemly 2024-25 season. Amid these ups and downs, the franchise has produced standout players, leading to the curation of the All-Quarter-Century team by RotoWire.

This prestigious list includes modern icons such as Tyrese Maxey, who has emerged as a leader despite the team's struggles. Alongside him are legends like Allen Iverson, whose impact is etched in Sixers' history, and Andre Iguodala, known for his defensive prowess. Tobias Harris and Joel Embiid, with notable stats and accolades, round out the team, highlighting the depth of talent the franchise has nurtured over the years.