When Kyrie Irving's relationship with Nike ended in December 2022, the basketball and sneaker world buzzed with speculation about his next move. His signature sneaker line was one of Nike's most successful, leaving fans and analysts curious about where he would land. The answer came in the summer of 2023 when Chinese sportswear giant ANTA announced a groundbreaking deal with Irving. This partnership gave Kyrie unprecedented creative control over his signature series and allowed him to sign athletes under his label. In a historic move, Kyrie has signed his father, Drederick Irving, as the first signature athlete under the ANTA Kai line.
The news, first reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic, marks an unprecedented event in professional sports history. Never before has a player signed his father to a signature sneaker deal. Specifics regarding Drederick Irving's first sneaker with ANTA remain under wraps, and this deal may see Kyrie’s father get his colorways of the ANTA Kai 1. Charania reported that Drederick’s shoe will be released in September via Footlocker stores.
Drederick Irving, a former professional basketball player, has always significantly influenced Kyrie's career. This new partnership honors their strong bond and bridges generations in basketball sneakers. For ANTA, signing Drederick is a strategic move that leverages the Irving family's legacy, bringing a unique narrative to their brand.
Kyrie's transition to ANTA has been marked by creativity and innovation. Multiple colorways of the ANTA Kai 1 have been released so far. The latest pair to release will be the Playoffs Energy colorway, which launches just a day before Irving suits up to play in this year's NBA Finals.
As we await more details and images of Drederick Irving's debut sneaker (or his colorway of the KAI 1), one thing is sure: the ANTA Kai line is poised to make history. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases from ANTA, Kyrie Irving, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
