During the NBA Finals, there has been a subtle yet fascinating storyline developing courtside, not involving the players competing for the championship, but rather a legendary former player whose name still resonates among basketball enthusiasts worldwide. Reggie Miller, the iconic Indiana Pacers shooting guard and one of the most prolific three-point shooters in NBA history, has been making waves not only for his sharp commentary and insights as a broadcaster but also for his choice of footwear. Miller has been spotted wearing his “Killa 31” Air Jordan 19 SE PE, a sneaker that holds a significant place in basketball history and a personal connection to the final moments of his storied career. This is the same shoe he wore during his final NBA season in 2004-05, a year that marked the conclusion of an 18-year journey defined by clutch performances, legendary rivalries, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Reggie Miller’s presence at the Finals is always noteworthy, given his reputation as one of the greatest competitors the league has ever seen. Known for his fierce battles against the New York Knicks, particularly in the 1990s, Miller built a legacy as a fearless shooter who thrived under pressure. Every time he steps into an arena, whether as a broadcaster or a guest of honor, there is a palpable sense of respect and admiration. This year, however, Miller’s choice to bring back his iconic “Killa 31” Air Jordan 19 SE PE has sparked discussions among fans, sneakerheads, and basketball historians alike. The decision to wear this particular shoe is not merely a fashion statement; it is a tribute to his past and a symbolic reminder of an era when Miller’s deep-range shooting and unrelenting confidence struck fear into the hearts of defenders across the league.
The Air Jordan 19 SE is a unique silhouette that was originally released in 2004, just months before Miller announced his retirement. Designed with innovative technology for its time, the shoe was built for performance, with a lightweight construction, sleek design, and a unique “Tech Flex” upper that provided a snug, supportive fit. Reggie Miller’s “Killa 31” PE (Player Exclusive) version of the shoe was customized specifically for him, incorporating elements that celebrated his identity as the Pacers’ franchise player. The number 31, which Miller wore throughout his career, is prominently associated with his persona, and the moniker “Killa” reflects his killer instinct on the court. This PE was never released to the general public, making it an ultra-rare piece of sneaker and sports history.
Wearing the “Killa 31” during the NBA Finals in 2025 feels like a full-circle moment for Miller. Nearly two decades after his retirement, his influence on the game remains undeniable. Modern shooters such as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Damian Lillard often credit Miller, along with Ray Allen, as pioneers who redefined the value of the three-point shot. Miller’s ability to perform in hostile environments, to hit impossible shots under immense pressure, and to carry a small-market franchise deep into the playoffs established him as a trailblazer. His shoes, particularly the Air Jordan 19 SE PE, serve as a visual representation of that fearless era, reminding today’s fans of what it meant to be a clutch player before the three-point revolution truly took hold.
Fans attending the Finals have taken notice of Miller’s sneakers, with many posting images on social media, sparking conversations about the significance of player-exclusive shoes and the nostalgia they evoke. Sneaker culture has grown exponentially since Miller’s playing days, with rare PEs often fetching thousands of dollars on the resale market. The sight of Miller casually rocking his “Killa 31” PEs has left many wondering about the stories behind the pair, and why he chose this specific moment to bring them back. While Miller has not made a formal statement about the shoes, it’s easy to see how the Finals stage, where the stakes are highest and the spotlight brightest, would be the perfect place to pay homage to his basketball journey.
The 2004-05 season was an emotional one for Reggie Miller. Having spent his entire career with the Indiana Pacers, he entered the league in 1987 as a slender rookie with a deadly shooting stroke but faced skepticism early on, especially from Pacers fans who initially preferred local star Steve Alford during that draft. Over time, Miller won them over, not just with his shooting but with his competitive spirit, his knack for late-game heroics, and his fierce rivalry with Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls and Patrick Ewing’s New York Knicks. By the time 2004 rolled around, Miller had cemented his status as one of the league’s most respected veterans. His final season was a farewell tour of sorts, with fans across the country paying tribute to a player who had become synonymous with loyalty, perseverance, and excellence.
The Air Jordan 19 SE “Killa 31” became a symbol of that farewell. Designed with sleek, futuristic lines and a minimalist aesthetic, the shoe was perfect for Miller’s playing style—efficient, no-nonsense, and deadly accurate. Every time he laced up those sneakers in 2004-05, there was an awareness that fans were witnessing the last chapter of a career that had given them countless unforgettable moments, from the famous “8 points in 9 seconds” against the Knicks in the 1995 playoffs to his legendary trash-talking duels with Spike Lee at Madison Square Garden.
Fast forward to today, and the NBA Finals stage has changed dramatically, with faster-paced offenses, an emphasis on spacing, and an almost obsessive focus on the three-point shot. In many ways, Miller’s game foreshadowed this modern era. Watching him sit courtside, dressed in sharp suits with his “Killa 31” Jordans subtly visible, feels like a bridge between the old school and the new. Younger fans who may only know Miller through YouTube highlights or as a voice on TNT broadcasts are now being introduced to another layer of his legacy—his connection to sneaker culture and the personal artifacts of his career.
The story of the Air Jordan 19 itself is a fascinating chapter in sneaker history. When the original Air Jordan 19 released in 2004, it represented a new direction for the brand, incorporating materials and technologies not seen before in the basketball shoe market. The “Tech Flex” shroud, inspired by fencing masks, offered a snug fit while protecting the foot, and the lightweight midsole provided cushioning and responsiveness. For players like Miller, who relied on quick movement, sharp cuts, and the ability to get open for threes, this shoe was an ideal match. His PE version, the “Killa 31,” was customized with Pacers-themed colors and his personal branding, making it a true collector’s item.
