Kyrie Irving revealed a more streamlined version of his Anta Kai 1 sneaker during the warmups for Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The sneaker's colorway was designed by his father, Dred Irving.
The Anta Kai 1 Speed “Twin Flames” is a simplified version of Irving's first signature Anta sneaker. The changes reduce the weight and remove the forefoot strap. Irving wore the Kai 1 Speed in two colorways during the Dallas Mavericks' victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, at that time, no information was available about this prototype sneaker.
"Twin Flames" alludes to the bond between Irving’s parents, Dred and Elizabeth Irving. They met at Boston University as student athletes. Recently, Dred became the first athlete to sign a signature shoe deal with Kyrie under his Anta brand.
Purple symbolizes Dred. Orange represents Elizabeth. Pink denotes their energy and love, which resulted in Irving's birth.
The Anta Kai 1 Speed is Irving’s second sneaker with Anta. It will be succeeded by the Kai Tribe, a lifestyle sneaker due in the fall. Anta introduced the Kai 1 in March. This happened eight months post Irving's deal announcement. So far, each of the seven colorways released have sold-out. This includes the just-released "Playoff Energy" edition, which came out a day before the NBA Finals started.
Irving concluded his sneaker free agency by partnering with Anta. He was previously dropped by Nike due to sharing a controversial documentary on social media. Irving took time before issuing an apology. Irving's Anta collaboration has been successful. A brand spokesperson mentioned to ShoesClub they could possibly sell ten times their current U.S. market supply. However, the U.S. Congress is scrutinizing Anta for suspected use of forced labor.
Irving's Mavericks got defeated by the Boston Celtics in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday night in Boston.
The Anta Kai 1 Speed "Twin Flames" release details are not available yet. ShoesClub will provide updates as they come.