Justice Swann

Courtesy of Laci Swann (Justice Swann); Courtesy of Nike (sneaker)

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Sneaker Superstar

Justice Swann is a lot like many kids. The 7-year-old loves to do puzzles and jump on trampolines. But last year, Justice did something most kids don’t get to do. He designed a special pair of sneakers. 

It all started when sneaker company Nike asked Jewell Loyd to create her own shoe. Loyd plays in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is also best friends with Justice’s mom, Laci Swann. Loyd thought Justice could help.

Scott Eklund/NBAE via Getty Images

Jewell Loyd (right) wearing the sneakers Justice designed

Courtesy of Nike

Justice has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Like some people with ASD, Justice doesn’t speak. But he expresses himself in other ways. One way is through drawing.  

Nike sent Justice a blank piece of paper in the shape of a shoe. He filled the sneaker with his favorite thing to draw: smiley faces. But instead of using a smile for the mouth, Justice drew a swoosh. That is Nike’s logo. 

The sneaker Justice designed went on sale last May. It sold out within minutes. Luckily, Justice got his own pair. 

“As we opened the box of shoes, his eyes lit up,” says Laci Swann.  

Justice wore his sneakers all the time. Loyd wore them a lot too, including during WNBA games. Everyone in the crowd got to see Justice’s design. That made both Justice and Loyd smile.

  1. How did Justice get a chance to design a sneaker for Nike?
  2. How did Justice use the Nike logo in his sneaker design?
  3. How did Justice feel when he received his pair of sneakers? How do you know?
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