In a stunning move, Kyrie Irving, the star guard for the Dallas Mavericks, has inked a five-year endorsement deal with a Chinese sportswear giant. This news comes after the 31-year-old’s recent split with Nike, which resulted in an estimated loss of $11 million for the NBA star.

A deal with a company valued at $28.66B stands as big as industry giants like Nike and Adidas and marks a significant rebound for Irving. He had been with the Swoosh brand since he entered the NBA Draft in 2011. The partnership produced eight signature shoes, with the Kyrie 7 being the latest. However, the relationship soured after Irving promoted an anti-Semitic film, which lead to Nike terminating his contract.

Kyrie Irving announces his new shoe deal?

Irving’s departure from Nike was a significant blow, not just financially, but also to his brand. The Kyrie line was one of the American company’s top-selling basketball shoes, and his departure left a void in the market.

READ MORE: ?He?s Been Doing This but They Never Cared?: NBA Fans Erupt as Kyrie Irving Follows Up $65K Noble Gesture With $50K Generous News

Kyrie Irving took to social media to announce his recent partnership. However, his long-worded announcement disclosed his perplexing role in the company.

?I am proud to announce that I am Partnering with Anta as Chief Creative Officer,? he wrote.

https://twitter.com/KyrieIrving/status/1678986981488095233?s=20

With this groundbreaking deal, Irving aims to push boundaries in the footwear and apparel industry while inspiring like-minded individuals around the globe. This new partnership with Anta presents an opportunity for the star guard to rebuild his brand on a global scale and fans are showing their excitement.?

Fans show their support after Irving’s latest move

Evidently, Irving’s fans gave overwhelming support for their idol’s decision to partner with Anta.

Another fan showed his eagerness for more details.

https://twitter.com/untuckedkai/status/1678988647989932032?s=20

A supporter praised Irving’s brave decision.

https://twitter.com/MediaTakeOuch/status/1678993449050046465?s=20

Expressing excitement all the way from China, a fan had this to say regarding the deal.

https://twitter.com/Eddie11054495/status/1678997459148869635?s=20

One enthusiastic fan simply stated couldn’t wait for the first pair to drop.?

Irving’s on-court performance remains as stellar as ever. He reminded everyone of his talent with a stretch between March and April, when he scored at least 40 points in several games.

His skills and popularity make him an attractive figure for brands, and Anta has seized this opportunity. Do you think the partnership will work out well in the years to come? Let us know in the comments below.

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