Kevin Durant blends basketball nostalgia with innovation in his latest Nike KD 18. This new silhouette pays tribute to the iconic 1997 Nike Air Bakin. The Air Bakin holds a strong cultural connection in Washington, D.C., and Prince George’s County, Maryland—Durant’s hometown.

Durant first laced up the Nike KD 18 “Air Bakin’ during a Phoenix Suns game. The sneaker features a bold red-and-black upper with yellow laces, echoing the Air Bakin’s signature look. Wavy side panels, breathable mesh, and KD branding on the tongue modernize the retro design.

The original Air Bakin became infamous due to controversy surrounding its stylized “Air” logo. Many believed the design resembled Arabic script, leading Nike to recall 38,000 pairs. Despite this, the shoe remains a favorite among basketball enthusiasts. Worn by NBA legend Tim Hardaway, the Air Bakin last retroed in 2014. Supreme also reimagined the model with an exclusive collaboration in 2023.

The KD 18 “Air Bakin” merges history with performance, bringing back a legendary colorway with Durant’s signature touch. Its design respects the past while enhancing comfort and playability for today’s game.

Nike KD 18 Air Bakin Release Date

The Nike KD 18 “Air Bakin” will officially release on May 15, 2025. Sneakerheads can find it at select Nike Basketball retailers and Nike.com. The retail price is set at $150 USD.

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Photos: Riccardo Mestre