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For being part of such a swaggering, smack-talking sport, there's something really sweet, old-fashioned almost, about basketball star Kevin Durant. He takes the time and trouble to honor his "roots" and background with some old school flair, like commemorating his longtime coach in the Amateur Athletic Union who was murdered at the age of 35 by wearing a "35" jersey.
His latest homage is to his beloved Aunt Pearl, who passed away from lung cancer in 2000. Growing up, she was a constant presence in his life and the two spent countless hours laughing, joking, watching movies and generally having fun. “I made a promise to myself to always honor my Aunt Pearl for the example she set, and the encouragement she gave me to follow my dreams,” says Durant, who designed a super-cute pair of Nike sneaks in her honor. (He also designed a pair of sneaks honoring his fave childhood snack that Aunt Pearl would make him every day after school: PB&J.) The KD VI Aunt Pearl has a fun, all-over pink floral reminiscent of her favorite robe and very in step (so to speak) with all the blooms and bright prints that walked the spring runways.
The shoe's tongue has the Kay Yow Cancer Fund logo - to raise awareness of the battle against women's cancers. Proceeds from the shoe will go to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, founded by the former North Carolina State University head women's basketball Coach Kay Yow, who believed that athletics was more than just practice and game days - it was a community.
I also recorded a podcast about how projects like Kevin's, which give back and help keep lovely memories alive, relate to the doings of the Folkspun fashion tribe.
Music: Kevin MacLeod, Incompetech.com
- Lesley Scott
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