LeBron James featured in a Canyon Bikes ad sporting a yellow jacket from Drake’s Nike collaboration.
LeBron James recently appeared in a Canyon Bikes commercial wearing a piece from Drake’s NOCTA clothing line, reminding fans that clothing choices don’t necessarily indicate personal relationships. The Los Angeles Lakers star’s fashion choice quickly ignited discussions on social media, especially given the ongoing speculation about his friendship with the Toronto rapper.
The ad, promoting Canyon Bikes, showcases James in a vibrant yellow Nike x NOCTA L’Art Bala Tech jacket. He shared a teaser of the commercial on Instagram on December 9, discussing his collaboration with the bike company and hinting at upcoming products. The post attracted attention not for the bicycles, but for his notable wardrobe choice, which seemed to contradict rumors of a strained friendship.
Timeline of the Alleged Rift
The dynamic between James and Drake appeared to change in 2024 when James publicly supported Kendrick Lamar during his dispute with Drake. This shift was first noticed in late 2024 when James was seen enjoying Lamar’s music before a Lakers game, a move interpreted by many as taking sides in the feud.
A significant moment occurred on Juneteenth 2024 when James attended Lamar’s concert, The Pop Out: Ken & Friends, in Los Angeles. His appearance was seen as a clear indication of his allegiance in the music industry’s rivalry.
The situation intensified in July 2025 when reports emerged that Drake had altered a tattoo honoring James, replacing it with one of NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s jersey. This change suggested a significant deterioration in their relationship.
Understanding the NOCTA Brand
Drake launched NOCTA in 2020 as a Nike sub-label, blending streetwear with athletic functionality. The line features urban fashion staples like hoodies, t-shirts, tracksuits, and sneakers, all influenced by Drake’s style. NOCTA has become a notable name in sports apparel and street fashion.
The brand’s success is attributed to Drake’s cultural influence and Nike’s distribution capabilities. NOCTA releases often sell out quickly, with items becoming highly sought after. The yellow L’Art Bala Tech jacket worn by James exemplifies the bold, technical outerwear the brand is known for.
James Discusses the Relationship
In September 2025, James addressed his relationship with Drake in a Complex magazine interview, indicating that while they were distant, the friendship hadn’t completely ended. He noted they were focused on their respective careers and personal lives but maintained that mutual respect still existed.
James portrayed their relationship as two busy individuals on separate paths rather than a fallout. He emphasized that Drake was pursuing his projects while he concentrated on basketball and business ventures, leaving room for potential reconciliation.
The Implications of Wearing NOCTA
James’s choice to wear NOCTA in the Canyon ad has various interpretations. As a Nike spokesperson, he has access to all Nike products, and choosing NOCTA may simply reflect an appreciation for the jacket’s design rather than a statement about his relationship with Drake.
Alternatively, some see it as a subtle gesture indicating that any tensions between the two weren’t significant enough to prevent James from supporting Drake’s business. The timing of the commercial’s filming adds another layer of uncertainty.
This incident highlights how celebrity friendships are scrutinized, with fans and media searching for underlying messages in every action. James may have simply liked the jacket without considering the public’s interpretation.
Whether the NOCTA jacket symbolizes reconciliation, business, or style, it underscores how interconnected sports, music, and fashion are today. James continues to navigate these domains while remaining a key figure in basketball both on and off the court.
