Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving isn’t just known for his handles and shooting prowess. He’s also making headlines for his innovative approach to sneaker deals. In a move unlike any other in professional sports, Irving recently signed his father, Drederick Irving, to a signature athlete deal with his ANTA KAI shoe line.
This groundbreaking deal marks the first time a player has signed a family member to their own signature shoe line. Drederick Irving, a former college basketball player himself, will have his own sneaker under the ANTA KAI umbrella. This is a heartwarming gesture from Kyrie, recognizing his father’s influence on his basketball journey.
The news comes just before the NBA Finals matchup between the Mavericks and Celtics, where Irving will be facing his former team. It’s a significant moment for Irving, both on and off the court.
Drederick Irving’s Basketball Background
Drederick Irving played college ball at Boston University from 1984 to 1988. He was a skilled scorer, averaging over 15 points per game throughout his career. His accomplishments on the court likely played a big role in inspiring a young Kyrie to pursue basketball.
The ANTA KAI Line
After a previous partnership with Nike ended, Irving signed with Chinese sportswear brand ANTA in 2023. The ANTA KAI 1, Irving’s first signature shoe with the brand, has been a success. The line often features designs that reference Irving’s Native American heritage.
A Unique Family Moment
This deal is a unique way for Kyrie to celebrate his family’s impact on his career. It’s also a strategic move for ANTA, generating significant buzz around the brand and the Irving name. Details on the design and release date of Drederick Irving’s shoe haven’t been revealed yet, but sneakerheads are sure to be waiting with anticipation.
Whether you’re a Kyrie Irving fan or simply a sneaker enthusiast, this father-son collaboration is a definite first in the world of sports marketing. It will be interesting to see how this venture unfolds and if it inspires similar moves by other athletes in the future.
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UPDATE 6/5/24: Kyrie’s dad, Drederick Irving will get his own signature shoe that is expected to release in September. Stay tuned for updates.
Source: Shams Charania
