The partnership between Dallas Mavericks superstar Kyrie Irving and Chinese sportswear brand ANTA is already changing the sneaker industry as we know it! Just over a year ago, ANTA shook up the world after they welcomed the veteran on board as their face and Chief Creative officer. Now, Irving and ANTA the $27 billion valued brand are coming to take over the NBA.

Irving signed this deal after his years-long link with Nike ended controversially, even though The Kyrie series (1 to 7) were selling like hotcakes in the market. Now, the Chinese sportswear brand, alongside its Chief Creative Officer, has announced a lineup of new global basketball stars who’ll be repping the brand in the league.

The two announced the signing of Caris LeVert, Derrick Jones Jr, and Irving’s Dallas teammate Daniel Gafford to shoe deals. “These guys are my brothers, players I’ve shared the journey with,” said Irving in the statement. He further mentioned, “Together, we aim to inspire the future of basketball and create a legacy that resonates globally.” Suggesting that the collaboration wants to extend globally in the future.

This also comes as a big win for not only ANTA but for Irving who was able to land LeVert and Gafford. Both of whom have been Nike athletes previously and as mentioned the Mavericks star’s relationship with the global sportswear brand ended on a bitter note. As part of ANTA, the three new athletes will showcase the entire KAI collection in their upcoming games, embodying the spirit and purpose.

Kyrie Irving’s first signature athlete for his ANTA shoe line was none other than his father

After inking a five-year deal with ANTA the Chinese sportswear brand Kyrie did something that’s never been done before. He signed his father, Drederick Irving as the first-ever athlete for his signature shoe line. This groundbreaking move marked the first instance in professional sports where an athlete signed their father to a deal.

However, Drederick is by no means new to the basketball world. The Mavericks star’s father has played collegiate basketball as well as professionally overseas in Australia. Standing at 6-foot-4 with a frame reminiscent of his son, Drederick suited up for Boston University from 1984 to 1988. This was a full-circle moment for the veteran who has publicly said that his dad is his “biggest fan.”

His father has coached Kyrie through his childhood and helped shape his journey to the NBA. You can often see him in the stands cheering for his son. “One of my harshest critics,” said Kyrie about his father, but also added, “he’s always been honest.” Stating that even though he’s been harsh he has judged Kyrie fairly, he created a wholesome momentum for the basketball world to see. As Irving continues breaking barriers along with ANTA creating a global powerhouse for sportswear.