The Miles College Golden Bears and Lady Bears are sporting a fresh look this season, thanks to the generosity of NBA superstar Ja Morant. Morant, sidelined for the season with a shoulder injury, has outfitted both teams with his signature Nike Ja 1 shoes.

This partnership stems from a long-standing relationship between Miles College athletic director Fred Watson and Morant's father, Tee. With one phone call, Watson secured the deal for the teams to receive the shoes, making their debut last month at Knox-Windham Gymnasium.

Beyond the footwear, Morant's support extended beyond a simple sponsorship. He connected with the Golden Bears directly, offering encouragement and inspiration that Watson emphasizes is rarely experienced by players at smaller colleges.

While Watson acknowledges the star power Morant brings, he also highlights the importance of showcasing Morant's positive impact on the community. "This is a great young man doing uplifting work," Watson says, praising Morant's commitment to giving back.

Morant's support extends beyond words. He's become a dedicated supporter of the Golden Bears' quest for a fourth Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title in five seasons. His parting message to the team? "Win one in my shoes."

This partnership goes beyond just sneakers. It's a story of community, connection, and the power of encouragement from a superstar athlete. The Miles College Golden Bears and Lady Bears are not just sporting Ja Morant's signature shoes; they're playing with his support and inspiration behind them.