As I watched last night’s heated matchup between TNT and their opponents, one moment stood out more than any spectacular dunk or three-pointer: a sequence of hard, physical plays in the second half that left players clutching their ankles and scrambling for stability. It was during one of those intense sequences—when Glenn Khobuntin and Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser were called for flagrant fouls—that I found myself thinking, not for the first time, about the importance of ankle support in basketball. You see, I’ve been playing pickup games for over a decade, and I’ve had my share of ankle rolls and close calls. That’s why I’ve come to rely on high-top basketball shoes, particularly from Adidas, which consistently deliver that locked-in feel you need when the game gets physical.

Let’s rewind to that pivotal moment in the game. With tensions running high, Khobuntin’s aggressive close-out led to an awkward landing for his defender, while Ganuelas-Rosser’s foul moments later involved a collision that sent both players stumbling. In real time, it was clear that inadequate ankle support played a role—not just in those incidents, but throughout the game. I’ve noticed this trend in professional leagues, where players sometimes prioritize lightweight, low-cut designs for speed, only to pay the price when contact occurs. According to a study I recall reading (though I might be fuzzy on the exact numbers), ankle injuries account for roughly 15-20% of all basketball-related injuries, and I’d bet that percentage spikes in games with lots of physical play like this one. That’s where the right footwear makes all the difference.

Speaking from personal experience, I used to think ankle braces were enough until I tried my first pair of Adidas high-tops. The difference was night and day. I remember lacing up the Adidas Pro Model 2G High—a model I still swear by—and feeling that extra layer of security around my ankles. It wasn’t bulky or restrictive; instead, it provided a snug fit that let me pivot and jump with confidence. In fact, just last month during a local league game, I landed on someone’s foot after a rebound and felt my ankle start to twist. Thanks to the support from my Adidas kicks, I walked away with nothing more than a slight twinge, while my buddy in low-tops ended up with a sprain that sidelined him for weeks. That’s why I always tell fellow ballers: if you’re serious about your game, you need to discover the best Adidas high cut basketball shoes for superior ankle support.

Now, let’s tie this back to the TNT game. After those flagrant fouls, the broadcast showed replays highlighting how players’ ankles were vulnerable during sudden stops and lateral movements. It reminded me of a conversation I had with a sports podiatrist a while back—he mentioned that high-cut designs from brands like Adidas can reduce the risk of inversion sprains by up to 30%, though I’ll admit I’m paraphrasing from memory. In my view, this isn’t just about comfort; it’s about performance and longevity. When you’re driving to the hoop or defending against someone like Khobuntin, who’s known for his physical style, you need footwear that keeps you stable. I’ve tested multiple Adidas models, from the Harden Vol. 7 High to the Dame 8 EXT PLY, and they all share that commitment to ankle protection without sacrificing responsiveness.

Of course, not everyone agrees. Some of my friends on the court argue that high-tops slow them down, and they point to NBA stars who wear low-tops. But I’ve found that Adidas has struck a great balance with their latest offerings. For instance, the Adidas Exhibit B High, which I picked up last season, features a adaptive collar and cushioning that makes it feel almost as agile as a mid-top. Plus, in a game where fouls and collisions are inevitable—just look at how Ganuelas-Rosser’s incident unfolded—why wouldn’t you want that extra insurance? I’ve seen too many players, both amateurs and pros, neglect this and end up with injuries that could have been prevented.

Wrapping this up, the TNT game served as a stark reminder of how unpredictable basketball can be. Between the flagrant fouls and the intense competition, it underscored the need for gear that supports you when things get rough. From my perspective, investing in quality high-cut shoes is a no-brainer, and Adidas continues to lead the pack with options that blend style, tech, and protection. So next time you’re suiting up, take a page from my playbook and give them a try—your ankles will thank you. After all, in a sport where every step counts, why leave anything to chance?