Kyrie Irving Claims Major Sneaker Deal Is On The Way
In addition to being an NBA free agent, Kyrie Irving is also a sneaker free agent. The perennial All-Star lost his signature line with Nike following his controversial rhetoric considered antisemitic, resulting in an eight-game suspension last November.
Following the breakup, Irving continued to wear Nike sneakers. However, the Swoosh logos were concealed with black tape and hand-written messages. Now as Irving prepares to find a new team in free agency, he will simultaneously search for a new sneaker sponsor.
During an Instagram Live session on Wednesday, a fan asked Irving for an update on his footwear. Irving said, "I will be signing my new shoe deal very, very soon. I won't even call it a shoe deal. I'm about to blow this out the water. I'm so excited about it."
According to Bally Sports reporter Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson, Adidas and PUMA have reportedly gauged interest in the possibility of signing Kyrie Irving to a sneaker deal.
Detailed look at Kyrie Irving's shoes.
© Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
It would be surprising if Irving signed with either company. Adidas recently dropped Ye (formerly known as Kanye West) for antisemitic remarks, which could cost $1.3 billion, according to CNN. Plus, the brand already has five signature sneaker lines for active NBA players, all point guards.
Meanwhile, PUMA only has one active NBA player with a signature sneaker line; Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball. Adding Irving would signal a stark change in course for the direction of the brand that has been building around a rising star.
Realistically, Irving will likely partner with a smaller sneaker company. Before a game in March, Irving tested Ethics shoes, a brand owned by NBA veteran Langston Galloway and his wife. Teaming up with a budding brand with a similar ethos feels like a more natural fit for Irving.
We will keep our readers updated on this developing story. Stay locked into FanNation Kicks for all your sneaker news, interviews, and analysis.
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