What Nike basketball shoes are players wearing during March Madness?
We've already spotted killer Nike shoes on some of the tournament's top athletes from Duke to the Ohio State Buckeyes.
David Hoffman- The NCAA Tournament began on Thursday, March 19.
- Top shoes used during the tournament includes Nike KD 18, Nike LeBron 23, Nike Ja 3, Giannis Freak 7 and Sabrina 3.
The NCAA March Madness tournament is a time where everyone huddles around whatever screen they can to watch the top schools in the country hunt for a shot at the Final Four in Indianapolis.
With games officially underway, shoes are an underlying storyline as some of the country's top players are showing out in the sleekest kicks imaginable.
Whether you're a player-oriented fan like Duke's Cameron Boozer or you're cheering on your alma mater, there's basketball shoes that are great for anyone.
Shop below to find out what Nike basketball shoes are trending during March Madness 2026 so far:
Shop Nike basketball shoesNike basketball shoes worn during March Madness 2026
1. KD18 "International Blue" basketball shoes
Duke's standout freshman forward Cameron Boozer has dazzled on the court in a variety of different shoes this year, including the Nike KD18 "International Blue" shoes, which feature a metallic look that shines on the court.
Even BYU's A.J. Dybantsa has been wearing them throughout the season as he's led the NCAA in points per game this season with 25.3.
2. Nike Book 2 basketball shoes
The Nike Book 2s are popular on the court this year with various schools, including the Kentucky Wildcats and Arkansas Razorbacks. Each school's shoes feature the team's color along with its own flare.
For instance, with it being Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker's line, his alma mater, Kentucky, has a sleek denim look that stuns on the court.
NOTE: The "Must Be The Denim" shoes will be available soon.
3. Nike KD18 "Warning Label" basketball shoes
Ohio State Buckeyes Sophomore guard John Mobley Jr. is sporting red Nike KD16s during the team's opening game against TCU. While the 16s aren't available anymore, the latest model, the KD18s, are available in six different colors.
4. Jordan Tatum 4 Basketball Shoes
In honor of former Duke star and current NBA All-Star Jayson Tatum, Duke swapped the patented Nike look for Jordan Tatum 4s, which stun with a bright yellow color wave.
5. Kobe IX Elite Low EM Protro basketball shoes
The Kobe IX Elite Low EM Protro shoes have been a popular one by many, including multiple players on the TCU Horned Frogs, who stunned Ohio State during the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
When is March Madness 2026?
The 2026 March Madness tournament tipped off on Thursday, March 19 with the Round of 64. The tournament will continue through March, ending with the Final Four on Saturday, April 4 and the National Championship game on Monday, April 6.
Find March Madness ticketsMarch Madness 2026 full schedule for the men's tournament
- March 19-20: First round
- March 21-22: Second round
- March 26-27: Sweet 16
- March 28-29: Elite 8
- April 4-5: Final Four
- April 6: National Championship
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.