A month ago, we wondered if Kyrie Irving had signed a deal with Chinese sporting goods manufacturer Anta. Now we have clarity, as it has been announced that the Dallas Mavericks guard has agreed to a five-year shoe deal with the brand. A statement from Anta says Irving’s signature shoes and lifestyle footwear will launch early next year and that he will also serve as the brand’s Chief Creative Officer.
Irving’s nearly 12-year partnership with Nike ended last December after the company initially suspended the contract following Irving’s social media post last October linking to a book and movie with anti-Semitic content. Irving’s shoes were one of Nike’s most popular sneaker lines and reportedly earned Irving at least $11 million annually.
The eight-time All-Star just agreed to a three-year, $126 million contract to return to the Mavericks.
