In Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Kyrie Irving, the standout guard for the Dallas Mavericks, will unveil a new colorway of his iconic sneakers. Irving will wear the KAI 1 Speed “Twin Flame” pair when the Mavericks play his old team, the Boston Celtics, tonight. This pair is the star guard’s first trademark shoe under the ANTA brand.
Renowned sneaker journalist Nick DePaula claims that Irving is wearing these shoes tonight in memory of his father, Drederick Irving. His father was heavily involved in the shoe creation process. The sneakers have “Dred’s” inventive touch in every aspect.
The duo isn’t included on the ANTA website. However, the KAI 1 collection showcases the many colorways he’s had during the postseason. “Playoffs Energy” Yellow, “Playoffs” Navy, “Playoffs White, “Enlightened Warrior,” and “Artist On Court” are among the designs in the collection.
Irving’s father was the first athlete to sign up for ANTA’s shoe brand. The eight-time All-Star said having his father as part of his shoe brand means a lot since he is one of his biggest fans.
Father of Kyrie Irving Opened the New KAI 1 Speed “Twin Flame” Shoe Box
Kyrie Irving’s father was shocked to see the sneakers when he first saw them because he had worked extensively on their creation. Before the first game of the NBA Finals, Drederick Irving had the opportunity to introduce the unique footwear. He briefly explained the design’s inspiration when he opened the package.
Dred even brought up his late wife when discussing the character traits of the Mavericks player. He said: “I’ve seen so many facets of myself. He (Irving) was a combination of Liz and I, but Liz was a special person. She kinda wanted to shape the world. … This shoe reflects who Kyrie and I are, as one. I have to say, this is better than the KAI 1.”
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Kyrie Irving signed with the Chinese company in July 2023. Also, he was given the opportunity to launch his own shoe line. He is not the only athlete with a shoe deal under contract with ANTA. The Mavs star was named Chief Creative Officer with the intention of starting a chain of youth camps in China and America.