KicksBusters: Is the Nike Ja 3 Monster Energy Real?

2025 has been a big year for fake concept sneakers. It feels like every week there’s another “leak” making the rounds on X, Reddit, or Discord. High-quality AI renderings, Photoshop mockups, and fantasy colorways manufactured by counterfeiters have blurred the line between what’s real and what’s just a clever edit, and sneakerheads are falling for it more than ever.

Once again, Nike’s basketball division has found itself at the center of the storm. This time, it’s not an Air Force 1 or a Dunk (or the Air Jordan 4 Purple Thunder) – it’s Ja Morant’s third signature sneaker, the Nike Ja 3, which recently became the subject of a viral rumor. Alleged photos of a Monster Energy collab colorway started popping up on the internet – and within days, shady resale sites and Russian marketplaces were claiming to have pairs “available for pre-order.” But here’s the thing: the Ja 3 Monster Energy doesn’t actually exist.

Nike Ja 3 Monster Energy: Real Release or Digital Fantasy?

Let’s settle it straight away – the Ja 3 Monster Energy is not a real release. Despite how many times it’s been reposted, there’s no official confirmation from Nike, no retailer listings, and no leaks from credible sneaker insiders. Even Ja Morant himself stepped in, taking to X to shut down the rumor and reminding fans to be careful what they believe.

The so-called Monster Energy pair began circulating after a set of low-res photos surfaced on social media, allegedly showing a Ja 3 decked out in black and neon green. The images spread quickly because, well, they looked plausible. But there’s no official collaboration between Monster Energy and Nike Basketball, nor is there any record of production samples or a SKU tied to such a model.

What Would Nike Ja 3 Monster Energy Look Like?

So, what does this phantom pair actually look like? The alleged photos show a tightly knit mesh base with electric green accents in Monster's signature hue zig-zagging across the upper. A Monster logo is found on the heel where the usual "TWELVE" text is, and the packaging features a co-branded Ja Morant and Monster logo.

It’s easy to see why sneakerheads got fooled. The colorway actually works. It channels Ja Morant’s explosive playing style and his chaotic, high-octane energy on the court. In other words, this fake looks just believable enough to pass for a real player-exclusive or early promo sample.

Nike Ja 3 Monster Energy: Understanding the Inspiration

To understand why this rumor spread so fast, it helps to know what the Ja 3 really represents. The third signature sneaker in Morant’s line debuted earlier this year and has quickly become a smash hit for both pros and sneakerheads. The silhouette incorporates TPU reinforcements across the upper that form mini "JA" logos, and Morant's first name is playfully spelled out with the Swoosh on the midfoot.

Ja’s entire brand revolves around energy, his vertical explosiveness, his fast breaks, his unpredictable movements, all of which tie-in neatly to Monster’s identity as an energy drink company. It’s not hard to imagine a world where Nike actually does partner with the energy drink giant for a themed collab.

The Bottom Line: Nike Ja 3 Monster Energy Verdict

The Nike Ja 3 Monster Energy isn’t real – it’s a digital fantasy that spiraled into a social media myth. While the design fits Ja Morant’s image perfectly and could easily pass as a legit collab, it has zero ties to Nike’s official release calendar. Even the athlete himself has confirmed it’s fake.

Tune in next time to KicksBusters, where the Sole Retriever team of sneaker sleuths investigate the most viral (and questionable) rumored releases.

Adam Cheung

Adam Cheung is a writer and editor who specialises in sneakers and streetwear. Over the past few years, he's curated features and guides for everyone from Burberry to Nike. Often travelling between the UK and Hong Kong, don't be too surprised if you find Adam anywhere else around the world taking street photography or feasting on the local delicacies.