NBA athletes don't scrimp around when it comes to their kicks. Russell Westbrook, of the Oklahoma City Thunder, is no different.

Some have been known to jettison their shoes in the middle of a game (sponsorship be damned) because it was uncomfortable. Most scribble inside references to the surface of the sneaks or rocking expensive classics in hopes that the cameras catch a glimpse of it.

In the case of Nike endorsers — specifically those from the Jordan brand like Kevin Durant and Chris Paul — the signature shoes they design and develop need to have a story.

The Oklahoma City Thunders best player and reigning Most Valuable Player, Russell Westbrook, isn't any different.

With the release of his signature performance shoe the WhyNot Zer0.1 “Noah” – the seven-time NBA All Star credits his son by not only naming it after him, but also using an Emerald colorway inspired by his birthstone. Even better, the launch date is just around the same time of Noah's birthday, which is on May 16th and is inscribed on the inside strap.

The “Why Not?” is named after Westbrook's personal mantra, clearly evident on his unique fashion sense and perhaps even his shot selection. The shoe also plays exactly to his strengths and style, placing an emphasis on forefoot containment given the shiftiness and frenetic movement his game entails. The design still continues the tradition of the “Why Not” line with a futuristic palette that may or may not appeal to most wearers.

Then again, the whole concept of the shoe is not giving a hoot, and the kicks certainly accomplishes that either way.