Wanda Durant is the real MVP, but KD is a grandma’s boy too. Barbara A. Davis, KD’s grandma, was the one who told KD his height was a gift, even when his classmates teased him about his prodigious size. Her house was an escape of sorts for the Durant family, a place to laugh, cry, listen and learn from the family matriarch. Barbara’s enduring memory lives on in this special all-purple KD18, an homage to her favorite color. Her initials “B.A.D.” are embroidered on both tongue tops as well. Zoom, Zoom A big forefoot Air Zoom unit offers a different level of velocity when exploding, either on the dead run or out of a standstill position. It offers a different level of snappy pop when the game revs up. Our latest version of Cushlon foam adds a soft, comfortable sensation and freshness that can help you come the 4th quarter. Pop your Steps The bottom layer of the upper has Nike Air cushioning at the heel to add a pop in your step. A strong plastic plate directly underfoot conforms as you flex. It works with the forefoot Air Zoom unit to give you a snappy first step while also providing support and stability. Let it Breathe The upper is made of open holed sandwich mesh, which not only offers a different level of breathability when the action heats up but helped us reduce the weight of the shoe. Stay Contained A tough plastic cage offers customizable firmness on both sides of your foot that molds to your foot. It helps keep you on top of the platform.