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It wasn’t just Stephen Curry’s 38-point night that drew attention in Dallas — it was what happened before tip-off. According to reporters at American Airlines Center, the Golden State Warriors star walked in wearing Kyrie Irving’s Anta Roots “Ombre Blue” before debuting the ANTA KAI 3 during the game.
Afterward, Curry explained that it wasn’t some random fashion choice. It was a statement.
Curry said their shared history in the NBA — including several heated Finals matchups when Irving was with the Cleveland Cavaliers — shaped that respect. He added that he appreciates how Irving’s talent “raised your level throughout the journey,” pointing out that competitive rivalry eventually gave way to admiration as both stars aged.
Stephen Curry even confirmed that he wasn’t about to surprise Irving with the sneaker spotlight.
For Irving, the timing made the moment even more notable. He’s currently signed with ANTA Sports — a global footwear company valued at roughly $27.8 billion, according to financial filings — and has yet to personally debut the ANTA KAI 3 while rehabbing a torn ACL suffered last season. Having one of the greatest shooters ever do it for him wasn’t just a surprise — it was valuable exposure.
The nod also tracks with a bigger theme in Curry’s season. Since ending his long-standing partnership with Under Armour last year, Curry has openly embraced sneaker experimentation. He has laced up Nike Kobe 6s, Li-Ning’s Way of Wade and JB4, multiple Air Jordan models, Angel Reese’s signature shoe, and even On’s The Roger Pro Fire, per on-site media coverage throughout the year.
But that level of variety isn’t without risks — especially for a player known for his strict pregame rhythm and process. Curry told reporters there’s still structure involved.
“There’s a wear testing process before to make sure I know what it’s going to feel like… I’m not just wearing anything,” he said. He laughed and admitted that he wore tennis shoes in a previous game, but emphasized there’s a careful balance between fun and performance.
That balance matters to Curry more than ever this late in his career. Showing love to peers and idols is part of the experience now, but it never replaces discipline when it’s time to compete. The Dallas matchup was a reminder of that — Curry still dropped 38 in a tough loss despite the sneaker headlines swirling around him.
In the end, the pregame outfit wasn’t about hype. It was about two superstars recognizing the grind, longevity, and artistry in each other. For fans, it was a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of respect between competitors who once defined NBA Finals drama.
And in the sneaker world, it was a subtle test run for Irving’s next chapter — carried by one of the league’s biggest names.
FAQ:
Why did Stephen Curry wear Kyrie Irving’s shoes before the Mavericks game?
Stephen Curry said he wanted to show mutual respect for Irving’s talent and career, noting that their past battles made him appreciate Irving more over time.
Which Kyrie Irving shoes did Stephen Curry wear?
Curry arrived in the Anta Roots “Ombre Blue” and later debuted the ANTA KAI 3 during the game.
Why hasn’t Kyrie Irving debuted the ANTA KAI 3 yet?
Irving is still rehabbing a torn ACL from last season, so he hasn’t worn the shoes on the court himself yet.
How much is ANTA Sports worth?
ANTA Sports is valued at roughly $27.8 billion, making it one of the biggest sportswear companies globally.
What is Stephen Curry’s sneaker situation this season?
Since ending his Under Armour deal, Curry has been wearing a wide range of sneakers from different brands, including Nike, Li-Ning, Air Jordan, and On.
How did Stephen Curry play against the Mavericks?
Curry scored 38 points in a tough loss, continuing his strong form this season.
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