Nike’s Giannis Immortality 2 is the second iteration of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s budget-friendly basketball shoe line. With its sleek design and promises of speed, cushioning, and court feel, this shoe has quickly become a popular pick among hoopers looking for performance without breaking the bank.
In this detailed review, we break down everything from on-court performance to comfort, durability, and design to help you decide if the Giannis Immortality 2 is the right fit for your game.
First Impressions & Design
The Giannis Immortality 2 continues the low-profile aesthetic from the first model but with more refinement. The visual design draws on Giannis’ Greek heritage and personal story, featuring bold colorways and detailed patterns.
Design Highlights:
- Sleek silhouette with a modern, athletic profile
- Signature Giannis logos on the tongue and heel
- Breathable mesh upper with fused overlays for structure
- Aggressive outsole pattern resembling flames or wings
Overall, the shoe looks fast—and it is. It’s built for players who thrive on quick cuts, transitions, and energy return.
Traction: Grips When It Counts
Traction is one of the standout features of the Immortality 2. The outsole uses a wavy multi-directional pattern that provides excellent grip on clean courts.
Traction Pros:
- Bites well on hardwood surfaces
- Supports quick lateral cuts and sudden stops
- Full-length rubber coverage improves durability
Traction Cons:
- Can struggle on dusty or poorly maintained courts
- Needs occasional wiping during play
Verdict: Top-tier traction for a budget shoe, with solid bite and responsiveness on clean surfaces.
Cushioning & Court Feel
The cushioning system in the Immortality 2 is minimalistic but effective. Nike uses a full-length foam midsole instead of Zoom Air or React, aiming for responsiveness and agility rather than plush comfort.
Cushioning Highlights:
- Light and low to the ground
- Promotes explosive movement and court feel
- Good heel padding for impact protection
While not ideal for heavier players or those needing lots of shock absorption, the shoe is perfect for quick guards and wings who rely on speed.
Fit & Support
The Giannis Immortality 2 fits true to size for most wearers but may feel snug initially due to its narrow construction.
Fit Features:
- Internal heel counter helps lock in the heel
- Mesh and synthetic upper provides flexibility and containment
- Traditional lacing system for customizable lockdown
For a budget shoe, the support is impressive. It doesn’t feel flimsy during lateral movements or fast breaks.
Note: Wide-footed players may want to try a half-size up or break them in gradually.
Breathability & Comfort
The mesh upper makes the Giannis Immortality 2 one of the more breathable options on the market.
Comfort Summary:
- Lightweight construction prevents fatigue
- Mesh allows airflow, keeping feet cool
- Padding around the tongue and collar enhances comfort
It’s a well-balanced shoe that can handle multiple hours of play without overheating or causing pressure points.
Durability
Despite its affordable price point, the Immortality 2 holds up surprisingly well.
Durability Factors:
- Sturdy outsole for both indoor and light outdoor use
- Reinforced toe cap for added protection
- Minimal fraying or tearing even after extended use
Players using these casually outdoors may see quicker wear on the traction, but indoor performance remains reliable over time.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
At around $80–$90, the Giannis Immortality 2 offers outstanding value. It’s a high-performing shoe at a mid-tier price, and it competes with models nearly twice its cost in terms of agility, traction, and design.
Final Verdict: Who Is the Giannis Immortality 2 For?
The Giannis Immortality 2 is an excellent choice for:
- Guards and wings who value court feel and traction
- Players seeking a lightweight, breathable shoe
- Budget-conscious hoopers who want reliable performance
Not ideal for: Big men or players needing maximum impact protection or wide-foot comfort out of the box.
Summary
| Feature | Rating (Out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Traction | 9 |
| Cushioning | 7 |
| Fit & Lockdown | 8 |
| Breathability | 8 |
| Durability | 7.5 |
| Design | 8.5 |
| Value | 9 |
Overall Score: 8.2/10
For a budget-friendly, performance-driven shoe with sharp design and great traction, the Giannis Immortality 2 is one of the best basketball shoes under $100. It’s a worthy pick for agile players who want speed, responsiveness, and style in one sleek package.
