Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving has signed a true MVP to his ANTA shoe line: his father, Drederick Irving. This groundbreaking move marks the first time in sneaker history that a player has signed their own father to a shoe deal, The Athletic reports.
Sources: Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving is signing the first signature athlete for his ANTA shoe line: His father, Drederick Irving.
This marks the first time in pro sports a player has signed his dad to a signature shoe deal. pic.twitter.com/PB7ZXquVwY— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 4, 2024
After parting ways with Nike, @kyrieirving joined the Chinese brand ANTA in September 2023 and launched his own line. Drederick’s signature shoe, the first under Kyrie’s brand, will be available in Foot Locker starting in September. Drederick, who played college basketball at Boston University and professionally in Australia, has always been a source of inspiration and support for his son.
Kyrie, who signed a five-year contract with ANTA in July 2023 and became Chief Creative Officer, expressed pride in his father’s involvement. “He’s my biggest fan,” Kyrie said of his father last year, according to the Dallas Morning News. “One of my harshest critics. But he’s always been honest.”
Cover photo: Kyrie Irving Signs Father Drederick Irving as First Signature Athlete for Anta Shoe Line / Photo Credit: Julia Xanthos, New York Daily News