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Kyrie Irving and his father, Drederick, who played professionally in Australia, are currently in China. Kyrie, the chief creative officer of ANTA, is touring to promote the brand. While doing so, the Mavericks star has interacted with his Chinese fans.
Kyrie has done more than just take photos and sign autographs, though. He has displayed his skills as a hooper. He and his father participated in a pick-up game, and Drederick made a game-winning shot.
In an Instagram clip posted by ANTA, Kyrie is seen feeding Drederick the ball in the post. After receiving the pass, he spun towards the hoop and hit a game-winning layup.
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Between pickup games, the NBA champion unveiled his upcoming ANTA designs. Fans have already seen the ANTA Kai 1 and new Hélà Style shoes.
Irving was previously a Nike athlete, but the company reportedly cut ties with him in December 2022. Last summer, Irving signed a deal to become ANTA's brand ambassador and chief creative officer.
Kyrie Irving signed dad Drederick to a signature shoe deal with ANTA
Typically, sports brands sign world-class athletes to shoe deals. However, Kyrie Irving performed a surprising move that is a first in the world of sports.
According to a report from The Athletic's Shams Charania, Kyrie signed his father, Drederick, to a signature shoe deal. The report also stated that this was the first time a professional NBA player signed their father to such a deal.
While Drederick Irving never played in the NBA, he stood out for Boston University.
Drederick played 122 games for Boston University from 1984 through 1988. During his four-year collegiate career, he averaged 15.8 points and 2.0 assists per game.
He is considered one of the best players in the university's history, and his jersey was retired when he graduated.
His best season was his senior year when he averaged 19.9 points on 48.2% shooting from the field and 43.2% from behind the three-point line. Drederick tried out for the Celtics but did not make the team.
While he did not get to play in the NBA, Drederick did play professionally in Australia. Kyrie was born during his time there.
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