Pop-a-Shot 2.0? Reigning Champ Just Unveiled an Ultra-Luxe Basketball Game.


Reigning Champ is taking Pop-a-Shot to stylish new heights.

The Canadian athleisure brand just unveiled a basketball game that eschews garish colors and kitsch branding in favor of an elegant, minimalist design.

Made in collaboration with industrial designer Calen Knauf, the newcomer incorporates raw materials like wood, glass, and steel for a more modern feel. In addition, the hand-knotted cotton and silk nets were locally sourced from a Vancouver-based artisan in honor of Reigning Champ’s Canadian roots.

A profile view of the Reigning Champ x Calen Knauf basketball game.

A side view of the basketball game.

Courtesy of Reigning Champ

Measuring 87.5 inches tall by 48 inches wide, the sleek structure is held together by stainless-steel hardware and fitted with rubberized nylon wheels for greater maneuverability. The two powder-coated steel rims are affixed to a wooden backboard, with an angled wood panel underneath the nets returning balls to players. Thick tempered glass runs along the front, back, and sides to prevent the balls from going astray. At the very bottom, there is a storage space for the 10 mini leather basketballs that come with the set.

Other noteworthy features include built-in sensors between both hoops that ensure accurate scoring and a custom-machined electronic control panel. You can expect a small dose of nostalgia, too. Reigning Champ says the Pop-a-Shot 2.0 “replicates the authentic sounds of playing on a classic hardwood court.” In addition, the cables have been purposely left dangling at the back in a nod to the original arcade games. The hanging cords also contrast the structure’s otherwise clean lines.

Left to right: Designer Calen Knauf; co-branding featured on the back of the Reigning Champ home court.

Left to right: Designer Calen Knauf; co-branding featured on the back of the home court.

Courtesy of Reigning Champ

A metal plaque featuring both Reigning Champ and Knauf’s names has been fitted to the back to mark the collaborative release. The Vancouver-based clothing brand has been crafting athleticwear since 2007, but this is the first time it has worked with Knauf. The designer’s work, which focuses on the beauty of everyday objects, has also landed him a collab with Stüssy and the Rising Star Award at 2017’s Stockholm Furniture Fair.

Reigning Champ’s new arcade game is priced at $50,000 a pop and made to order, of course. Full-service white glove installation also comes with the purchase, naturally.


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