Andrew Rizzo Anthony Edwards may have taken home NBA All-Star MVP honors, but the man everyone is talking about following last night’s round-robin is Kawhi Leonard. The Claw caught fire against Team World in the semifinals, scoring 31 points in just twelve minutes on absurd efficiency in his home arena.
On-foot for the occasion was the New Balance KAWHI 5, Leonard’s fifth signature sneaker with the Boston brand, debuting on one of the biggest stages the league has to offer. The model keeps the same low-top setup as its predecessor, but the layering is entirely different, anchored by a continuous panel that forms the toe cap before rising around the eyelets and quarter. Synthetic leather creates a V shape over the toe box, paired with another leather overlay wrapping the heel. The midsole is also all-new, more streamlined and slightly lower compared to that of the KAWHI 4.
The All-Star Game colorway came in monochrome blue to go along with the Team USA Stripes jersey, but history suggests New Balance will rotate through a range of different material builds and color blocking schemes throughout the model’s run.
Kawhi Leonard is currently the only signature New Balance Hoops athlete, but that won’t be the case for long. Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey is confirmed to debut a signature shoe this year, while New Balance athletes Cooper Flagg and Cameron Brink stand out as strong prospects to follow.
The New Balance KAWHI 5 is confirmed to debut in 2026 and will be available via the New Balance website and select retailers. Stay tuned as we await further specifics.
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