Frank Cooke Announces Return to Nike and Jordan Brand

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Frank Cooke | UNLESS Collective/YouTube

Another veteran is making his way back to the Swoosh, as Frank Cooke has announced his return to Nike and the Jordan Brand.

Having left the Swoosh in 2018, Cooke has shared details of his return accompanied by a clear objective.

“I’m not saying I’m the one ya’ll trust to do it,” he stated in his Instagram story. “[B]ut I’m going to attempt to restore the feeling, be considerate of the current state of the industry + have a whole lot of fun while doing it.”

Cooke has played a pivotal role in the sneaker industry, especially noted for his contributions during his time at Nike and Jordan Brand. He began his journey as the creative director at Wish ATL, where he quickly earned acclaim for his extensive understanding of sneaker culture and distinctive design perspective. He later joined Jordan Brand as a product line manager, significantly influencing the curation of some highly sought-after releases.

Cooke’s philosophy toward sneaker design and collaboration has always been anchored in storytelling and authenticity. He adeptly preserved the heritage of the Jordan Brand while also modernizing it through partnerships with contemporary designers, influencers, and collaborators. His efforts with retro releases, player-exclusive versions, and limited-edition drops have received acclaim for effectively blending nostalgia with innovation.

Cooke was instrumental in introducing iconic sneakers like the Air Jordan 1 and Air Jordan 3 to new audiences, frequently updating them with fresh colorways and materials that appeal to both seasoned sneaker enthusiasts and newer fans alike.

Furthermore, his influence transcended footwear, affecting apparel and lifestyle collaborations that expanded the brand’s reach. Cooke has also gained recognition for mentoring emerging creatives and designers, thereby reinforcing his position as a link between traditional sneaker culture and the current fast-evolving fashion landscape. His impact during his time at Jordan Brand has left a significant mark on how the brand engages with its community.

Following his departure in 2018, Cooke continued to make waves across the industry, serving as creative director at Shoe Palace and injecting energy into ASICS.

With the return of Elliott Hill, a 32-year Nike veteran, as the newly appointed CEO, alongside Cooke’s arrival at Nike, Inc., it seems that Nike’s signature boldness is gradually being restored, one strategic hire at a time.

Check HQZ’s Sneakers page for the latest information and drop alerts.

  1. Sneakers Top Trends

    Official Release Date for the Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen”

    jordan-tatum-3-zen-fz6598-001-release-date-3jpg

    jordan-tatum-3-zen-fz6598-001-release-date-3jpg

    The Boston Celtics’ season is unfolding just as they had envisioned, with only one loss to report and a striking 30 points per game average from their star player, Jayson Tatum.

    After a more eventful off-season than what championship teams typically endure, Tatum and his Boston teammates have skillfully tuned out distractions, staying focused on their goal of repeating their success early in the season. In line with this theme, the upcoming #0 Jordan Tatum 3 is about to launch a “Zen” colorway that embodies this same sense of tranquility.

    The motif of serenity has been a consistent element in Jayson Tatum’s sneaker line, especially highlighted by the “Vortex” version of the Tatum 2, which explicitly connects to this theme: our previous coverage noted that the design reflects Tatum’s calm demeanor, reminiscent of the peacefulness found in a vortex above water.

    While this new model opts for a more subdued color palette, its execution remains true to that original concept; the graceful cut-outs in the upper design resemble calm waters, serving as a guiding inspiration throughout Tatum’s signature collection.

    As mentioned earlier, the Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen” is set to launch on November 14th via Nike.com, available in sizes for the whole family. The adult versions will be priced at $125.

    For a closer look at this appealing colorway, check out the official images below, and make sure to keep an eye on our Sneakers page for updates.


    Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen”

    SKU: FZ6598-001

    RETAIL PRICE: $125

    RELEASE DATE: Nov 14, 2024

    Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen” (Images via: Nike)

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  2. Sneakers Top Trends

    Jason Kelce’s Field Goal Attempt In Timberlands Will End In A $100,000 Donation

    This Saturday, November 2nd, Jason Kelce will take on a field goal challenge while wearing Wheat Timbs during the ESPN College GameDay broadcast of the highly anticipated Penn State vs. Ohio State matchup. The idea for this challenge originated when college student Daniel Villasenor successfully kicked a field goal in Vans checkerboard slip-ons, winning an impressive $100,000 earlier in October.

    Initially discussed on the Kelce brothers’ New Heights podcast with special guest Pat McAfee, this lighthearted challenge quickly evolved into a real event. The NFL legend, Jason Kelce, is set to attempt scoring three points while donning the famous Wheat Timberlands.

    In an exciting twist, VF Corp — the parent company of both Vans and Timberland — has stepped in with a generous $100,000 commitment to the charity Soles4Souls, aimed at supporting hurricane relief efforts. Fortunately for Jason, VF Corp has assured that the funds will be donated regardless of whether his kick is successful or not.

    Make sure to tune in to ESPN College GameDay on November 2nd, 2024, to witness this unique field goal attempt for yourself!

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  3. Sneakers Top Trends

    Notre and Vans Collaborate For the Rowley XLT “Linen”

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    NOTRE-NOV-15-1200x675jpg

    The highly anticipated Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen” is set to drop on November 15, 2024, exclusively at Notre and its flagship location.

    Be sure to check HQZ’s Sneakers page to stay updated on the latest happenings and drops in the sneaker world.


    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen”

    Colorway: Linen/Silver
    Style #: VN000D1GDPB1
    Release Date: November 15, 2024
    Price: $165

    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen”

    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen” VN000D1GDPB1 (Images via: @oscar_castillo/Instagram)

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