Kyrie Irving reportedly invested in Kicks Crew, a digital marketplace for authentic sneakers and apparel, and assumed the role of chief community officer.
The company said “Irving has invested in Kicks Crew because of its track record and commitment to building a player-owned and empowered platform.” The partnership is driven by a “mutual desire to democratize the sneaker marketplace and unite communities through sneaker culture.”
Irving’s role as chief community officer will showcase a “cause-driven, community-centric approach, empowering new brands and collaborations that blend art and basketball in new ways.” His efforts will extend globally, including initiatives and projects to “positively impact the Middle East and Africa, embodying a broader social and cultural engagement vision.”
“I’m excited to partner and invest in Kicks Crew’s vision to empower a new generation of independent consumers and thinkers,” said Irving. “This is an empowerment play for my fellow entrepreneurs, artists and athletes who have and want their independent visions and approaches celebrated. My role as chief community officer at Kicks Crew is centered around the mission of bringing all communities together through their love of sneaker culture to push forward unity and philanthropy when discussing his new investment.”
Kicks Crew said it has been a “champion for emerging brands since its inception, serving as a nexus for sneaker companies growing their international reach. It has also been a platform for NBA players to establish and grow their personal brands.”
Kicks Crew’s vision for a player-centric platform “serves as a springboard for making Irving’s products more accessible to fans.
Irving recently signed an endorsement deal with Chinese brand Anta Sports.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Kyrie Irving into the Kicks Crew family and for us to be accepted into the A11Even Tribe,” said Kicks Crew Co-Founder Ross Adrian Yip. “Kyrie’s influence on the community and deep passion for philanthropy brings immeasurable value to bringing our vision to life, and we are eager to use our platform to empower Kyrie and many more players willing to leverage their independent influence.”
Photo courtesy Kicks Crew/Kyrie Irving
