Skip to main content

LeBron James-backed Stan Smith documentary celebrates a tennis and sneaker icon

What you need to know about this Stan Smith documentary

Stan Smith standing on a dock.
Who is Stan Smith?

If you’ve got any understanding of sneakers, you likely know the name Stan Smith. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you know who Stan Smith is, but a new documentary may help you answer that question. Who Is Stan Smith? is a new documentary film that will tell the story of Stan Smith’s trajectory as a star in the world of tennis and the way he transitioned into a trailblazer in the world of fashion. The film is directed by Danny Lee and is produced by LeBron JamesMaverick Carter, Jamal Henderson, Alexandra Dell, and Donald Dell.

When will the film hit theaters?

Who is Stan Smith - Teaser

The film is set to begin its theatrical run on May 3 when it will premiere in New York City. It will debut in Los Angeles on May 10, and also roll out to other cities after that, including  Atlanta, Washington D.C., Dallas, Denver, San Diego, Honolulu, San Francisco, Newport, Columbus, St. Louis, Arlington, Scottsdale, Cambridge, Indianapolis, Annapolis, Eugene, Frankfort, Royal Oak, Canton, Hartford, Novi, Plymouth, Hilton Head Island, and more.

Recommended Videos

The film’s official synopsis hints at the fact that, in spite of the fact that everyone knows Stan Smith’s name, far few know who he is.

“More than the namesake of one of the most iconic sneakers, Stan Smith has lived a champion’s life on and off the tennis court,” it reads. “Chronicling his rise from collegiate superstar to World No.1 and beyond, Smith blazed new paths for athletes, both as a fashion icon and a humanitarian. Complete with intimate first-person accounts and dynamic archival materials, Who Is Stan Smith? is a powerful and inspiring portrait of the man behind the shoe that became a movement.”

Lebron James has become a hugely successful mogul

LeBron James
The Athletic

Even as he continues to prove his outstanding athleticism and longevity on the court, Lebron James has also taken plenty of opportunities to expand his sources of income beyond his NBA salary. That includes producing documentaries like Who Is Stan Smith? and other TV series and movies in partnership with Maverick Carter. He’s also got numerous endorsement deals and has even acted in a few projects himself, including Space Jam: A New Legacy, which hit theaters in 2021.

James is also a partial owner of numerous sports teams outside of the NBA, including several soccer teams and the Pittsburgh Penguins. James, who is the oldest player in the league at age 39, has said that he wants to own an NBA team once his team in the league is over. This will, of course, keep him involved in the NBA, but even then, it won’t be the only thing he spends his time. Lebron is an athlete and competitor, but he’s also a business man, and Who Is Stan Smith? is just one thing he’s invested his time in.

Joe Allen
Joe Allen is a freelance culture writer based in upstate New York. His work has been published in The Washington Post, The…
Brooks’ newest performance sneakers is here – and it’s a must-have
Brooks Running releases two new retro sneakers
grey brooks running shoe on red rock

In the last couple of seasons, sneaker fans have noticed an uptick in brands reaching into the archives for their newest releases. Brands like Nike and Adidas have shown that some of their most popular styles were once relegated to a vault. Now, it's Brooks Running’s turn to showcase some of their retro favorites. For the new season, Brooks is returning two of its favorite sneakers for a flash from the past.

 As part of a recent theme from the athletic brand that has seen the return of several designs, the two returns are perfectly in tune with modern trends. With a mix of retro details and modern technology, these sneakers balance style and comfort. Both styles are easy to add to your closet, although the same applies to many of Brooks’ existing products. For fans of archival designs, this Brooks release is one to watch for the summer season. 

Read more
This Pharrell x Adidas sneaker is coming back in an ultra-limited release
Pharrell and Adidas' limited edition sneaker is back
pair of adidas adizero sneakers

In addition to his fame as a musician, Pharrell Williams has made a significant impact in various industries, including fashion. Appointed Louis Vuitton’s men’s creative director, Williams has previously dabbled in creating statement pieces that turn heads. Recently, Williams and his long-term partner, Adidas, have announced the return of one of the athletic brand’s most lightweight marathon sneakers. In honor of the London Marathon, the pair is rereleasing one of the most iconic designs ever in an ultra-limited release that will leave many hanging. The limited-edition sneakers are one of the lightest from the brand, having been released only once before. Previously teased by Williams himself at the Paris Olympics, these sneakers are now being released again, albeit in limited quantities. 

Pharrell Williams x Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 

Read more
Adidas slims down their Stan Smith sneaker in new release
Adidas slims down its Stan Smith sneaker
white adidas stan smith low pro

While certain Adidas silhouettes, such as the Superstar and Samba sneakers, have dominated the scene in recent seasons, there are a few designs that have a long-standing history. One of these sneakers, the Stan Smith, has long been a staple in many closets thanks to its versatile look that can easily work in any outfit. While the Stan Smith’s design has long remained the same, a new upgrade sees it more narrow and slim than ever before. Following the trend of slimmer shoes, the new Stan Smith has a thinner sole that verges on the edge of an almost boxing-inspired shoe. Looking to establish its newest footwear star, the new Stan Smith is the ultimate trend shoe that can last for seasons. 

Get low with Adidas’ new Stan Smith sneaker

Read more