The name Kyrie Irving rings bells on and off the basketball court. The professional basketball player has a well-documented and notable relationship with fashion and sneakers. 

Take his signature line of basketball shoes with Nike. The eight-year collaboration with Nike featured unique designs and colorways that reflected his style and allowed him to express his creativity and individuality through his footwear.

The New Jersey native uses fashion as a means of self-expression. His eclectic and sometimes unconventional style choices in clothing and sneakers reflect his desire to stand out and be unique. 

In a recent Dallas Mavericks game against the Brooklyn Nets at his former home court, the skilled point guard proudly showcased his inaugural signature sneaker, a collaboration with ANTA, the prominent sports equipment company. He kicked back in the ANTA Kai 1 in the "Artist On Court" colorway. ANTA is the world's leading sports equipment company in revenue and the third-largest manufacturer of sporting goods overall, trailing only Nike and Adidas.

Gearing up for the launch, BET was given the exclusive opportunity to attend a special sneak peek of Kyrie Irving's latest venture. It is safe to say that Irving has taken his passion for sneakers to unprecedented heights. The event showcased the ANTA designs using cutting-edge technology while virtual reality provided attendees with real-time, immersive replicas of the shoes. Additionally, augmented reality offered a unique glimpse into the intricate design process.

In an unprecedented move, Black Footwear Design Director Jared Subawon orchestrated an artistic tour transcending ordinary sneaker releases. With six remarkable years at ANTA, Subawon has consistently redefined sneaker design, presenting creations that resonate profoundly and challenge conventional notions of aesthetics.

Irving intended to establish a lasting legacy that spans multiple generations in his role as chief creative officer. He said, “This is more than a shoe; it embodies our ancestors' strength and the future we're building. Every detail, from the hieroglyphics to the aerodynamic shape, tells the story of where we've been and where we're going. Join me in stepping into this new chapter.”

The ANTA KAI 1 Sneaker, releasing on March 6th, is also inspired by Irving's athleticism and “Enlightened Warrior” roots. It features aerodynamic contours, hieroglyphic-esque code representing KAI's code, graphics tied to his cultural heritage, and ANTA spelled out in KAI's code on the laces. The midsole tooling is engraved with "The Journey is the Reward," and the heel pull tab strap spells out Kyrie Irving in KAI's code.

Irving looked to ANTA's Color Design Director, Shaneika Warden, to bring his inspiration from the beliefs of Native peoples to life.  Each color corresponds to a discipline. Strength is symbolized by silver armor with explosive reds and oranges, which lean into the theme of endurance and divine guidance. Agility is represented by digital purples, reds, and blues, emphasizing nobility and mystery. Focus is encapsulated in rich teal with hot orange, symbolizing imagination. Speed is conveyed through yellow, focusing on light and mental stimulation, elevating energy levels.

The ANTA KAI 1, priced at $125 and available in sizes 8 to 15, is set to debut at select locations focusing on urban sneaker culture. From Sneaker Politics in Dallas to Extra Butter in New York to Nice Kicks in San Francisco, ANTA and Irving empower athletes, artists, creators, and sneaker enthusiasts to see the shoe as an athletic tool and a fusion of tradition, performance, and design.