In the world of basketball sneakers, the 361 brand’s collaboration with NBA star Nikola Jokić on the Joker 1 GT signature series has won over countless fans with its top-notch performance and standout designs. Built for versatile players, the Joker 1 GT isn’t just a beast on the court—it’s also become a favorite for streetwear enthusiasts. On April 12, 2025, at 9 AM Pacific Daylight Time, 361 is set to release two fresh colorways of the Joker 1 GT: "Champagne" and "ASG." With their unique designs and meaningful stories, these new drops are already generating major buzz. So, what makes the Joker 1 GT "Champagne" and "ASG" special? How do they perform? What scenarios are they best for, and how can you snag a pair? This article will break it all down from both an educational and practical perspective, helping you get to know these new kicks and make a smart buying decision.
The Tech and Performance Behind the Joker 1 GT
The Joker 1 GT is 361’s custom-made signature sneaker for Nikola Jokić, packed with cutting-edge tech to give players well-rounded support on the court. Here’s a deep dive into its core features and performance benefits:
Core Tech Breakdown
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Outstanding Cushioning The Joker 1 GT features CQTEXTREM3 midsole technology, delivering lightweight cushioning with a springy feel. This tech boosts bounce for higher jumps while offering a softer landing, protecting your ankles and knees from the impact of intense play.
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Strong Traction Equipped with a groundbreaking RPU outsole made from a non-foamed PU compound, this sneaker provides exceptional grip and long-lasting durability. Whether you’re making quick stops, fast starts, or multi-directional moves, the RPU outsole keeps you steady on the court, handling every motion with ease.
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Superior Stability A standout feature of the Joker 1 GT is its Qu!kBONE carbon-fiber plate. This plate offers incredible stability, especially during rapid direction changes, giving you better control and reducing the risk of ankle rolls, so you can play with confidence in high-stakes moments.
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Excellent Support The shoe’s internal TPU full-wrap edge design, paired with an external RPU roll-up structure, creates a dual-support system. This setup enhances lateral support and stability, helping you dominate the court while cutting down on fatigue during long games.
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Lightweight Design Designed with weight reduction in mind, the Joker 1 GT keeps things light without sacrificing comfort or performance. This lightweight build improves agility, letting you stay at your best throughout the game, even during extended play.
Performance Benefits
Inspired by Jokić’s all-around playing style, the Joker 1 GT balances speed and control, making it a great fit for players in various positions. Whether you’re a guard who needs quick cuts or a center battling in the paint, this sneaker offers reliable support and responsive flexibility to help you perform at your peak.
Joker 1 GT "Champagne" & "ASG" Colorway Breakdown
The Joker 1 GT "Champagne" and the Joker 1 GT "ASG" colorways don’t just carry forward the sneaker’s stellar performance—they also bring unique styles and stories through their designs.
"Champagne" Colorway
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Design Inspiration The "Champagne" colorway pays tribute to Jokić’s championship glory, featuring a champagne gold and white palette that symbolizes celebration and elegance. The understated luxury of the gold tones paired with a clean white base gives this design a ceremonial vibe, honoring Jokić’s on-court achievements.
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Key Features This colorway boasts a luxurious look that highlights the wearer’s unique taste. The champagne gold accents shimmer under the lights, making these kicks a standout on the court.
"ASG" Colorway
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Design Inspiration The "ASG" colorway is crafted for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, drawing inspiration from San Francisco’s stunning sunrises and sunsets, as well as the Golden State Warriors’ retro jerseys. Its vibrant orange base radiates energy, capturing the excitement of All-Star Weekend, while the orange-and-black combo nods to the Warriors’ classic style.
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Key Features With its bold orange design and a glossy patent leather toe, this colorway is perfect for players who love a flashy look. The bright orange upper ensures you’ll turn heads on the court with its high-visibility style.
Where to Rock the Joker 1 GT
With its top-tier performance and versatile colorways, the Joker 1 GT fits a variety of scenarios, appealing to different types of users.
Basketball Games
Designed for all-around players, the Joker 1 GT offers excellent stability and traction. The Qu!kBONE carbon-fiber plate and RPU outsole work together to keep you balanced during quick cuts and jumps, helping you shine in games. Whether you’re driving to the basket or holding your ground on defense, this sneaker has your back.
Daily Training
For everyday training, the Joker 1 GT’s lightweight design helps reduce foot fatigue. The CQTEXTREM3 midsole provides soft cushioning, making it ideal for long sessions of running and jumping, so you can stay comfortable even during intense workouts.
Street Style
The Joker 1 GT isn’t just a performance sneaker—it’s a fashion statement. The "Champagne" colorway’s elegant champagne gold and white combo is versatile and classy, perfect for casual outings or social events. Meanwhile, the "ASG" colorway’s eye-catching orange design is a hit with trendsetters looking to make a bold streetwear statement.
Collectible Value
As part of Nikola Jokić’s signature line, the Joker 1 GT already has collectible appeal. The "Champagne" honors championship glory, while the "ASG" is a special All-Star edition—both carry commemorative significance, making them a great addition for sneaker collectors.
Tips for Buying the Joker 1 GT "Champagne" & "ASG"
Here are some practical tips to help you pick the right pair and make the most of your purchase.
Sizing Advice
The Joker 1 GT runs a bit narrow, so choose your size based on your foot length and check the sizing chart on the 361 website. If you have wide feet, consider going up half a size for a comfy fit—for example, if you usually wear a US 9, try a US 9.5 to avoid a tight squeeze.
Where to Buy
To ensure you’re getting the real deal, we recommend buying directly from the 361 website. The "Champagne" color way is expected to have limited stock due to its unique design, so make sure to jump on the drop early to secure your pair. The "ASG" colorway, with its All-Star theme, is also worth grabbing quickly, so mark your calendar for the release.
Budget Considerations
The Joker 1 GT "Champagne" and "ASG" are expected to retail for around $180-$190, offering great value for the price. For budget-conscious ballers looking for high-performance kicks, this sneaker is a solid pick. Compared to other signature shoes in the same tier, the Joker 1 GT delivers impressive performance at a more affordable cost.
Care Tips
To keep your basketball shoes in top shape, clean the upper with a soft brush and damp cloth, and avoid washing them directly with water to protect the RPU outsole’s grip. Store them in a cool, well-ventilated spot, steering clear of high heat or humidity to prevent the materials from aging or warping.