Gift comes after TSU Athletics recently announced new multi-year partnership with Nike
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — NBA superstar Kevin Durant has gifted members of the Tennessee State University men’s basketball team pairs of his latest signature sneaker, the Nike KD 19, according to Sneaker Shop Talk.
The gift comes shortly after Tennessee State Athletics announced a new multi-year partnership with Nike in July, making the company the official apparel provider for TSU athletic programs, according to a release from Tennessee State University Athletics.
A video posted Tuesday on the official TSU Men’s Basketball Instagram account shows team members receiving the shoes on the court.
The KD 19 is Durant’s 19th signature shoe with Nike and features a new design that includes a molded upper and TPU “dagger” structure inspired by Durant’s “Slim Reaper” nickname, according to Sneaker Shop Talk.
The basketball shoe also features full-length Air Zoom Strobel cushioning, Cushlon 3.0 foam, a midfoot shank for stability and a traction pattern designed for performance on the court.
The KD 19 made its debut in June, with its first release on June 13 followed by a wider launch on June 17. The shoes retail for $155.
Under the multi-year agreement, Tiger student-athletes and coaches will receive Nike uniforms, footwear, apparel and equipment across all athletic programs, Tennessee State Athletics said. BSN SPORTS, a distributor of sporting goods apparel and equipment, will facilitate a portion of the partnership.
“Nike is one of the most iconic brands in sports, and we are proud to partner with them as we continue to elevate Tennessee State Athletics,” Tennessee State Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen said in the university’s announcement. “This partnership represents our commitment to providing a first-class experience for our student-athletes while strengthening the visibility and identity of the TSU brand on a national level.”
Tennessee State Athletics said TSU teams will compete and train in Nike apparel and equipment. The partnership also calls for officially licensed Tennessee State Nike merchandise and fan apparel to be made available through retail and online outlets for TSU supporters.
