NBA All-Star Devin Booker, a proud native of West Michigan, is set to release his latest collaboration with Nike and Chevrolet on April 22. This unique collection pays homage to his upbringing in West Michigan, and his deep-rooted passion for classic Chevrolet Blazers.
Booker has often credited his mother, Veronica Gutierrez, for instilling in him the values and work ethic that have shaped his personal and professional life. Booker recently reflected in an interview, "I learned my fundamentals in West Michigan," underscoring the significant impact his early environment had on his development. Before her son became a household name, Veronica worked at Jude’s in downtown Grand Rapids, where she cut men's hair. For about five years, I was one of her regular clients, and I remember Devin being a frequent topic of conversation. Veronica often proudly spoke about her son’s talent and potential to local business leader clients like Sam Cummings of CWD, Richard Postma Chairman of Macatawa Bank, and countless other influential figures. She was known for saying, "Someday I won't be cutting hair anymore." As a single mother raising a daughter with special needs, Veronica carried herself with grace and determination. She was the kind of person everyone rooted for—warm, strong, and deeply loved by her clients.
During his Olympic appearance, Booker proudly stated, "It's an honor to play for the USA — the best land in the world — and to defend the stars and stripes." His patriotic spirit and appreciation for representing his country reflect the same grounded values he attributes to his upbringing in West Michigan.
He also fondly remembers attending Drew Neitzel's basketball camp, whom he calls a "Grand Rapids legend." In fact, the first autograph he ever received was from Neitzel. The former Michigan State star left an impression on a young Booker, who credits those local camps and mentors as pivotal to his early growth on the court.
The Nike x Chevrolet x Devin Booker collection features three distinct sneakers inspired by Booker's own 1972 Chevrolet Blazers:
Each pair comes in custom packaging reminiscent of vintage Nike boxes from the 1980s, featuring global graphics and tissue paper printed with retro Chevy and Nike advertisements. Notably, the packaging highlights Michigan, paying tribute to Booker's home state and Chevrolet's origins.
Complementing the footwear, the collection includes Nike x Chevrolet t-shirts adorned with images of the Phoenix Mountains and Booker's personal Chevrolet Blazers. These pieces merge basketball culture with contemporary Americana, offering fans a timeless expression of elevated sport style.
The timing of the release has only added fuel to a fire already burning among Detroit Pistons fans. Online forums and social media have been swirling with speculation: Could Devin Booker return to his home state and suit up for the Pistons?
While there’s no official word from Booker or the Suns, fans are dreaming of a future where the West Michigan native leads a Pistons resurgence. His deep ties to the region and a growing legacy beyond basketball, the idea doesn’t seem as far-fetched as it once might have. "Watching the Pistons made me fall in love with the game of basketball"
The entire collection will be available starting April 22 on Nike's SNKRS platform and select retailers. Sneaker enthusiasts and fans alike can look forward to securing these limited-edition pieces that celebrate Booker's journey from West Michigan to NBA stardom.
Eric McKee is a lifetime resident of West Michigan. Married with two energetic boys, he spends his days balancing work with dad life. Also, a firm believer that Almond St. Claus Windmill Cookies are the ultimate snack (and maybe a little too good).
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