Dallas Mavericks star guard Kyrie Irving has inked an endorsement deal with Chinese sports brand Anta. News of the signing was first reported by The Athletic and Stadium's NBA Insider Shams Charania on Tuesday.
Shortly after the reports emerged last night, Irving confirmed on social media that he had agreed on a five-year deal with Anta. According to Nick DePaula for the Boardroom, Irving will play in the brand’s Shock Wave 5 for the start of the 2023–24 NBA season, with his first Anta signature collection releasing sometime during Q1 of 2024.
One of the more intriguing aspects of this new deal is that Irving has also been named as Anta's chief creative officer. Irving has confirmed that in the role, he will help connect "like-minded trailblazers who have the vision to create and build their craft to transcend the footwear and apparel industry for generations to come."
"Everybody comes into your life for a reason," Irving said. "Some people come into your life for a few seasons. But only a few will stick by you for a lifetime. I am proud to announce that I am partnering with Anta as chief creative officer."
Irving had previously been signed to Nike since 2014, but the Swoosh ended its partnership with the Mavericks guard in December 2022 after he shared a link to an antisemitic film on Instagram.
In addition to Irving, other notable NBA players that are currently under contract with Anta include Klay Thompson, Gordon Hayward, and Alex Caruso.
