There are 12 minutes remaining on the clock in the fourth quarter
This is where players prove their worth and cement their legacy as the most elite in the game. This is also when Dwyane Wade has proven his ability to rise to the occasion. This unique and rare trait served as the inspiration for his newest signature shoe, the WADE 4.
Wade became known as one of the best fourth quarter performers during the 2006 NBA Finals, where he led the HEAT back from an 0-2 deficit to win its first championship. In game three of that series, Wade scored 15 of his career playoff high 42 points in the fourth quarter to help Miami win their first of four consecutives games to clinch the title. Wade owns Miami HEAT franchise records for postseason fourth quarter points (20), and regular season fourth quarter points (24). He has scored double-figures in the fourth quarter 63 times in his career, and owns three career 20 fourth quarter point performances. Last season, Wade ranked second in the league in fourth quarter scoring with 6.9 points per game.
Ive always taken an aggressive approach with my game in the fourth quarter and when I step on the court I believe my drive can help myself and my teammates overcome any deficit, said Wade. The WADE 4 is the lightest of my signatures shoes yet, which helps keep me agile and explosive as the clock winds down.
The WADE 4s design pays homage to Wades ability to escalate his game to the next level in the final quarter of play. The tread of the shoe represents the last 12 minutes of the game. On the bottom of the shoe, from heel to toe, 12 red chevrons mark the amount of time remaining in the game and decrease in size. In the same direction, the treads in between the 12 chevrons represent Wades intensity, and increase in size as time winds down.
Weighing in as the lightest WADE signature shoe to date at 14 ounces, the WADE 4 also provides advanced support and breathability. It features new Suspend Technology in a cushioned shelf that rests over the hollowed heel on top of a layer of foam. Upon impact, the shelf displaces to create a desirable trampoline effect that helps to minimize impact forces. The WADE 4 is a truly breathable shoe, with open ventilation on the lateral and medial sides of the shoe for maximum airflow. The thin, inner booty sock has a fit system, which promotes lock down, while cushioning the ankle and allowing flexibility.
Signature details on the shoe reflect the most important things in Wades life, which he can view when lacing up before each game. On the inside of each tongue are his sons names, Zion and Zaire. One lace has the date, 06/20, and the other reads 2006, reminding Wade of the date he led the Miami HEAT to its first NBA Championship and was named 2006 NBA Finals MVP. The front of the tongue boasts six bold stripes on the left shoe and four on the right, a nod to Wades height. Finally, the WADE logo and his number 3 are on the back of the shoe.
The Converse WADE 4 will roll out in three colorways throughout the 2008-2009 NBA season. It will retail for MSRP at $90 at Dicks Sporting Goods, Finish Line, Champs, Finish Line, The Sports Authority, Eastbay, select independent retailers and online at www.converse.com.