If you’re a ‘straight baller’ or have a young hoopster in your family; then it’s a sure thing that the hot news last month was the launch in Shanghai of the new KT6. For those in the dark, KT refers to one half of the renowned Splash Brothers, Klay Thompson. Free flowing offense coupled with staunch, immovable defense have characterized the signature play of Klay. In my mind, he’s the premier two-way player on the Golden State Warriors roster. For beyond his obvious offensive gifts and trademark 3-point shooting, he’s assigned to defend the top-scoring Guard of any opponent they face.

It’s this multi-dimensional approach to playing the game that has endeared him to legions of fans and admirers. You don’t even have to be a member of the Warrior Nation to salute Klay’s brand of play, and appreciate what he brings to the hardwood court. His partnership with ANTA is now into its 6th year, and it’s been a near-perfect, highly fruitful collaboration.

With KT6, the signature pair of kicks is the High Mountain Water Flows model, as it encapsulates Klay’s solid defending via the Mountain, and his flowing transition to offense via the Water. Hollow Strokes is a design master stroke; predominantly a stark Black & White, then with a surprise neon green accent at the bottom of the shoe, that extends from mid-heel to mid-sole.

Night Storm is a black shoe with exciting splashes of dramatic colors, truly sleek & imaginative. As for KT Home, the Aqua and Yellow accents (home colors of the Warriors) strategically turn this White-based baller shoe into a fun, vibrant pair of Kicks.

With all the KT6 models, the 3D Flow System provides sufficient lateral support, anti-torsion, and ankle protection during abrupt stops and sudden changes in direction, and sensitive front-back transmission when in motion. The Midsole binding and heel-cushioning function ensures they perform well in terms of wrapping & stability.

A limited number of Klay Thompson figurines, in four models, were surprise ‘gifts’ that were packed with a mystery box concept during the launch. They’re collectibles that promise to be welcome additions to those lucky ones who acquired their KT6. Can only hope that eventually, they’ll be made available to the public, and not just a limited edition of 150 pieces.

These KT6 shoes are marvels that combine efficient and state-of-the-art shoe technology with forward-looking, futuristic design lines. So not only are they high-performance kicks, but they’re stylish to boot. What more can a baller ask for, or want in his pair of shoes?

With the holiday season in sight, now just might be the time to visit the ANTA Sports Flagship Store at SM Megamall, or their ANTA Sports Basketball Store at SM Aura Premier. There’s a new ANTA Sports at Ayala Cloverleaf and in the Men’s Activewear section of Landmark Trinoma, and an ANTA Outlet Store at Citywalk II, Eastwood City. Hoop Dreams do come true with ANTA.