Kawhi Leonard is expanding his impact beyond the court at a pivotal moment in the season.
The LA Clippers star and two-time NBA champion has taken on a larger creative role with New Balance, announcing the next chapter of his signature sneaker line — the KAWHI V — while also serving as Creative Director for the upcoming campaign.
Leonard and New Balance revealed details of the launch in a statement provided to Heavy Sports. The new model is scheduled to be released later this year with a retail price of $160 through New Balance and select retailers.
Clippers Star Kawhi Leonard Expands Role With New Balance
Leonard’s involvement goes beyond performance input. For the KAWHI V rollout, he is guiding the overall creative direction, helping shape both the design narrative and marketing vision tied to the shoe.
The campaign is expected to explore Leonard’s persona and long-standing nickname, continuing a trend of blending his on-court identity with off-court storytelling.
“Working with the New Balance design team on the KAWHI V is a continuation of what we have been building together,” Leonard said. “I wanted this model to highlight those first steps, that first burst that you feel on the court.”
The KAWHI V is designed to reflect Leonard’s playing style — built around explosiveness, balance and control — while maintaining a look that transitions from game action to everyday wear.
Performance-Driven Design Anchors New Model
HeavyThe KAWHI V, Kawhi Leonard’s latest signature shoe with New Balance, reflects his explosive playing style as the LA Clippers push toward the playoffs.
According to New Balance, the KAWHI V introduces several updates focused on performance and comfort.
The shoe features a soft, premium upper designed for lockdown support, along with a dual-density FuelCell midsole aimed at delivering responsiveness and energy return. A forefoot Y-plate is also incorporated to enhance Leonard’s trademark first step and lateral movement.
New Balance Basketball senior product manager Kevin Trotman said the design process centered on capturing Leonard’s unique approach to the game.
“Collaborating with Kawhi pushed us to focus on what defines his play — intent, control and that immediate burst,” Trotman said. “This model is built to support that while maintaining a refined aesthetic off the court.”
An apparel capsule is also expected to accompany the launch, including a warm-up jacket, performance shorts and a training top.
Clippers Continue Playoff Push
Leonard’s off-court announcement comes as the Clippers remain locked in a tight postseason race.
Los Angeles fell 128-110 to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, but Leonard led the team with 20 points while adding eight rebounds and three assists. The performance extended his streak of scoring at least 20 points to 56 consecutive games.
Over his last 10 appearances, Leonard has averaged 26.4 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting over 50 percent from the field, signaling strong form heading into the postseason.
The Clippers (41-39) currently hold a narrow lead over the Portland Trail Blazers for the No. 8 spot in the Western Conference. The two teams are set to meet on Friday in a matchup that could determine play-in positioning.
If Los Angeles secures the No. 8 seed, it would open the Play-In Tournament against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.
Timing Aligns With High-Stakes Stretch
Leonard’s latest move reflects a broader trend among NBA stars expanding their influence into branding and creative direction, even as they remain central to their teams’ playoff ambitions.
For Leonard, the KAWHI V launch aligns with both his identity as a player and his evolving presence off the court.
As the Clippers prepare for a critical stretch to close the regular season, Leonard’s role continues to grow — both as the team’s on-court leader and as a creative force shaping his brand beyond the game.
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This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
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