After officially announcing his five-year partnership with ANTA this past summer, Kyrie Irving has sported the Chinese brand’s flagship on-court silhouette in an extensive range of colorways throughout the 2023-24 season. In an effort to democratize the sneaker ecosystem and unite communities, the eight-time All-Star is officially joining KICKS CREW as an equity shareholder and will assume the role of Chief Community Officer for the marketplace.
When Irving initially signed with ANTA, he stated that he would receive more autonomy with signing other artists and players while expanding the brand’s collaborative portfolio. Irving’s role as CCO with KICKS CREW allows him to dive into the latter even further as he looks to blend art and basketball specifically. Irving’s efforts and initiatives will also extend into the Middle East and Africa, areas of the globe he has been both quick and consistent to support.
“I’m excited to partner and invest in KICKS CREW’s vision to empower a new generation of independent consumers and thinkers. This is an empowerment play for my fellow entrepreneurs, artists, and athletes who have and want their independent visions and approaches celebrated,” Irving said in a statement.
Kicking off his partnership, Irving and KICKS CREW are embarking on an 11 Days of Giving initiative that will see 11 colorways of the ANTA Shock Wave Pro 5 release in an exclusive 111 pairs. Sign-ups are currently open with colorways like the “Dark Knight”, “Lone Ranger” and “Halloween” available for purchase.