Straight Buckets: Kyrie Irving's ANTA KAI 1 ‘Chief Hélà’ Finally Arrives

Originally debuting on the NBA hardwood back in May, hoops fans will remember Kyrie Irving lacing the ANTA KAI 1 ‘Chief Hélà’ colourway during Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference Finals. Leading the Dallas Mavericks to a nail-biting 108-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, Irving popped off for 30 points, shooting 12-of-23 from the field.

After much anticipation, the colourway is finally set to release this month. A tribute to Irving’s Native American heritage and his connection to the Standing Rock Sioux tribe, of which he is an honorary member, the Hélà name honours ‘Little Mountain’, his Lakota name. The most salient aspect of this colourway is no doubt the moccasin style tassels around the collar, which are unique to this specific model and pay homage to sacred ceremonies. In the words of ANTA, these bring ‘a touch of ancient tradition to modern performance’.

Kyrie Irving’s deep connection to Lakota heritage shines through in every step of his journey, and the ‘Chief Hélà’ shoe is a reflection of that bond,’ said his aunt, Charlotte Mountain of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.

The ANTA KAI 1 ‘Chief Hélà’ will be available on October 12 via ANTA and select retailers for $125.

For more basketball news, make sure to read up on Juju Watkins’s upcoming sneaker deal – it’s set to be one of the most lucrative women's deals ever!