Russ Bengtson

1 week ago | complex.com | Russ Bengtson

From who made the Foamposties to why they're so expensive, here are 20 things you didn't know about Nike Foamposite sneakers. June 20, 2025The original 'Royal' Nike Air Foamposite One. Via NikeWhen the Nike Air Foamposite One first dropped in 1997, it was like nothing anyone had ever seen before, but people wore it in some impressive performances. The sleek $180 shoe had no Nike branding on the upper, save a small Swoosh near the toe.

Mar 19, 2025 | shorturl.at | Matt Welty |Russ Bengtson

Getting rid of 100+ pairs was a daunting task, but it felt good in the end. You can’t take it all with you. This is what I’ve been telling myself over the past few months. And for some time, really. My life isn’t in danger that I know of, but it’s a realization that collecting, stockpiling, and, really, hoarding sneakers is a game with no end in sight. A neverending quest, a never-ceasing pile of leather, synthetic fabrics, rubber, and glue. What’s the goal of having more shoes than the next person?

Feb 19, 2024 | complex.com | Riley Jones |Russ Bengtson |Angel Diaz |Angel Díaz |Matt Welty |John Q Marcelo | +6 more

The NBA All-Star Game is one of sport’s best annual events, but let’s be honest—it’s usually not because of the thrilling on-court action. As cool as it is to see the biggest names in basketball team up for one night only, the magic often tends to fade somewhere right around the third or fourth uncontested alley-oop of the night. Still, that’s not to say that the All-Star Game is completely without its share of memorable moments—especially in the footwear department.

Jan 30, 2024 | complex.com | Shawn Setaro |Kiana Fitzgerald |Russ Bengtson |Ben Westhoff |Anslem Samuel Rocque |Brendan Dunne | +12 more

Rap lyrics pop into our heads at inappropriate times, end up as our yearbook quotes, and work their way into our everyday conversations. But very few bars would be as memorable if not for the music that accompanies them. Great production can make even the most objectionable or cheesy lyrics sound great. The producers who create these beats may not be as glamorous as the rappers who spit over them (at least, most of the time), but they are equally important.

Jan 29, 2024 | slamonline.com | Russ Bengtson

For three decades we’ve covered many amazing basketball characters, but some stand above the rest—not only because of their on-court skills (though those are always relevant), but because of how they influenced and continue to influence basketball culture, and thus influenced SLAM. Meanwhile, SLAM has also changed those players’ lives in various ways, as we’ve documented their careers with classic covers, legendary photos, amazing stories, compelling videos and more.