The Itchyworms lead vocalist and “It’s Showtime” co-host Jugs Jugueta is best known for hit songs and his infectious, humor-filled energy. But outside of his lively persona as an entertainer, Jugs is also an avid sports and fashion enthusiast, as seen through his love for global basketball star Kyrie Irving—and the latter’s collection with Anta, from meticulously crafted on and off the court footwear to apparel that embodies Irving’s values.

For Jugs, Kyrie’s development in sports and fashion has inspired aspects of his own craft. Jugs became a fan of Kyrie when the artist on court won the 2016 NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Since then, Jugs has followed Kyrie’s growth as a player throughout stints with the Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, and now, the Dallas Mavericks. What always struck Jugs was Kyrie’s boldness in his beliefs, both as a player and chief creative officer at Anta.

“I love that he’s not afraid to show his own beliefs,” Jugs said. “It’s very rare for athletes to embrace that part of their roots. His products are beautiful, with the way he sticks to his own thing. His craft in being a chief creative officer shows the boldness in his art, just like his unpredictable playstyle.”

As an artist himself, Jugs can relate. He recalls when he and his band were still trying to find their niche. In an era during which hard-hitting nu metal and slow acoustic were the top two genres, The Itchyworms found their perfect melodic sound despite being stuck in the middle—a parallel to Kyrie’s one-of-a-kind playstyle that made him a nine-time NBA All-Star.

“We stuck to our strengths, and eventually we were able to keep up with the heavyweights in the industry. Our niche ultimately became a trend in local music around 2005 to 2006. We were a part of that transition era by sticking to our own sound, just like how Kyrie always stuck to his beliefs regardless of the team dynamics he faced,” Jugs explained. Similar to how Kyrie marches to the beat of his own drum, Jugs and the Itchyworms found their niche in the music industry, which placed the ball in their court.

With Jugs’ on-the-go lifestyle as a musician and entertainer, he enjoys the Anta and Kyrie Irving collection—specifically the debut pair of the Kai 2 in the “Artist On Court” colorway, as it offers both style and functionality.

“My style is very ‘90s. I love wearing baggy stuff, even when skinny jeans were the thing and I used to get flak from my wife. I’m glad to see baggy clothes and the ‘90s making a comeback, but the most important thing for me is comfort,” Jugs said. “So, being a fan of basketball, sneakers, and Kyrie in general, I love how comfortable his shoes are anywhere I go. And, they go with my outfits!”

As part of the Kai Tribe movement bridging music, sports, and fashion, Jugs calls on fans of the three industries to try out pieces from Kyrie Irving’s latest collection of Anta footwear and apparel. “Anta has everything, from great designs, great athletes, and great comfort. I hope they put out more designs in the future. I will continue collecting pieces from their footwear and apparel.”