Kicks

Zach LaVine Shows Love to ASL Community With Sneakers

Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine wore an 'ASL' colorway of New Balance basketball shoes.

Pat Benson

In this story:

The Chicago Bulls are in the midst of a late-season playoff push. On Saturday night, Zach LaVine tallied 18 points and seven rebounds en route to a critical victory over the Miami Heat.

The 2x NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion used the primetime platform as an opportunity to celebrate the American Sign Language (ASL) community with rare sneakers.

LaVine has a long history of supporting the Deaf community. During high school, the teenager opted to take an ASL course. In 2017, Lavine told The Guardian, "We just thought it would be something different and fun. It's something you can keep forever — a lifelong skill."

Shortly after the Minnesota Timberwolves selected LaVine with the 13th overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, the rookie became a leader in his new city. LaVine hosted events and donated funds to celebrate the community.

Although LaVine's zipcode changed when he was traded to Chicago, his philanthropy has remained steadfast. The 28-year-old continues to spotlight the cause at every chance he gets.

LaVine is one of seven signature New Balance athletes in the league, and the Boston-based brand created a special pair of shoes for LaVine. Below is everything fans must know about the kicks.

New Balance TWO WXY v3

View of white and gold New Balance shoes.
View of Zach LaVine's shoes / © David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

On Saturday night, LaVine wore the New Balance TWO WXY v3 in a player-exclusive 'ASL' colorway. The shoes featured a white textile upper that molds to the foot. The gold detailing was contrasted by a subtle silver design depicting ASL.

While this colorway will likely remain a one-of-one, fans can still choose between several versions of the shoe on the New Balance website. In addition to wearing the TWO WXY v3, LaVine debuted the Fresh Foam BB in January during a game in Paris, France.

New Balance made major waves when it signed LaVine to a multi-year footwear and apparel deal last spring. Fans can always count on LaVine to lead on and off the court.

Recommended For You

Look: Zach LaVine gifts game-worn shoes to fan after epic game.

News: Alex Caruso switches sneaker brands midseason.

Story: New Balance wants to make running more inclusive.

Published
Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers the sneaker industry for Kicks On Sports Illustrated. Previously, he has reported on the NBA, authored "Kobe Bryant's Sneaker History (1996-2020)," and interviewed some of the biggest names in the sports world. You can email him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.

Home/News