Klay Thompson always feels a significant amount of love every time he visits China – to the point where he has been called “China Klay”. After signing a contract with ANTA, a Jingjiang-based shoe brand, in 2014 and receiving a 10-year extension through 2026, the former four-time NBA champion recently launched the original sneakers. ninth on his East Asia tour.

From “Captain Klay” shoes to celebrating his Caribbean roots, ANTA K9 will reveal Thompson’s many personal connections through meticulously designed and manufactured color variations. The shoe’s 3/4 silhouette hasn’t changed too much from previous versions in his line, similar to the K5’s use of the heel panel and sock-like construction.

A refined and symmetrical tongue construction provides perfect safety and aesthetics while a breathable ribbed textile wraps the shoe’s midsection. Klay’s “K” logo can be found on the lateral heel and his #11 is often printed on the tongue and heel tag on the top of the shoe. Get a detailed look at the seven upcoming ANTA K9 color variations in as we wait for news on the shoe’s release date.