The Air Jordan 3 “Knicks” went up for pre-order in June 2026, right around the time New York was celebrating its NBA championship. Jordan Brand also had Knicks-themed Nike apparel and several Air Force 1 colorways available during the celebration. Now, official images of the 2026 retro have surfaced, and Sneaker Market Romania reports that pairs ordered over the summer should begin shipping in December.

The 2026 version keeps the same color blocking as the original 2019 release, using White, Old Royal, University Orange, and Tech Grey. Most of the changes come from the shape of the shoe rather than the colors. Jordan Brand has been adjusting the Air Jordan 3 since the 2023 “White Cement Reimagined” release, bringing its overall shape closer to the original 1988 model.

Compared to the older version, the new Air Jordan 3 “Knicks” has a slimmer shape with a lower collar, shorter heel tab, and a tongue that sits slightly lower. The tongue fabric is also tucked behind the leather upper instead of sitting as high as before. The blue and orange accents appear a little less saturated than they did on the 2019 pair, although the official colorway remains unchanged.

There are a few extra details included with this release. Each pair comes with a sheet of New York-themed stickers featuring Knicks graphics, a subway train, a yellow taxi, and a basketball hoop. The date behind the tongue has also changed from “04.08.88” on the 2019 version to “06.13.26” on the new release.

Those who pre-ordered the Air Jordan 3 “Knicks” this summer can expect their pair delivered sometime in December. While unconfirmed, it’s also possible Jordan Brand might hold additional drops via SNKRS and retailers.

Stay up to date with all upcoming Air Jordan releases from our Air Jordan Release Dates page.