Name: Nike KD 17 “Aunt Pearl”
Color: Pink Foam/Beyond Pink
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Price: $160
Style: FZ1518-600
Where to Buy: Nike, Select Retailers, Tops & Bottoms

If you’re into sneakers or just love a good story behind them, you’ve probably heard about Kevin Durant’s latest drop: the Nike KD 17 "Aunt Pearl".

This one isn’t just about the looks or the tech (though both are solid); it’s about heart. Let me tell you why this shoe isn’t just another pair of kicks on the shelf—it’s personal, emotional, and meaningful.

The Story Behind It

Kevin Durant started the Aunt Pearl series back in 2012 to honor his late aunt, who passed away from lung cancer when he was just 11. She wasn’t just his aunt—she was his biggest supporter, someone who was always in his corner.

Through this series, Durant has kept her memory alive while also supporting a good cause: a portion of the proceeds from each Aunt Pearl release goes to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, which helps fund cancer research.

This year’s Nike KD 17 "Aunt Pearl" continues that tradition. It's a way for Durant to share his aunt’s story and give back.

What Makes the KD 17 "Aunt Pearl" Special

Let’s talk about the design. First off, the shoe is almost completely wrapped in shades of pink—Pink Foam and Beyond Pink, to be exact. This isn’t just a random color choice; pink is a nod to breast cancer awareness and serves as a symbol of remembrance and love.

One of the standout details is the pearl embroidery on the heel—a direct tribute to Aunt Pearl herself. And if you look closely, you’ll find her initials on the left shoe, which ties the design back to Durant in such a personal way. That’s the kind of detail that hits differently when you realize the story behind it.

For long-time fans of the Kevin Durant pink basketball shoes, there’s a little nostalgia sprinkled in, too. Floral patterns on the heel call back to earlier designs, specifically the KD 6, but this time, they’re a bit softer and more refined. It’s like a mix of old and new that works perfectly.

Performance That Doesn’t Skip a Beat

Sure, there’s a lot of heart behind the Kevin Durant KD17 Aunt Pearl shoes, but let’s be real—it still needs to perform, especially if you’re hitting the court. And the KD 17 delivers.

The lightweight upper hugs your foot without feeling suffocating, and the Zoom Air cushioning makes every step feel like you’ve got springs under you. Quick cuts? No problem.

Big jumps? Handled. Plus, this year, Nike swapped out the TPU waves for a suede-like finish, giving the shoe a more premium feel. It’s a subtle change, but it adds a lot of character to the design.

Why This Shoe Matters

From the first Aunt Pearl release to now, each shoe in the series has carried the weight of something bigger: love for family, respect for those who’ve passed, and a commitment to making a difference.

It’s more than Pink basketball shoes and cushioning—it’s a legacy, one that’s been built over the years and continues to grow with every release.

So, yeah, it’s a basketball shoe. But it’s also a reminder that sometimes, even in tough times, you can create something lasting, something meaningful.

And that’s what makes the Aunt Pearl Durant sneakers series so special. They're a way for fans to connect with Durant’s journey and support cancer awareness at the same time.

When and Where to Get Them

If you’re planning to snag a pair, you can find them at Nike.com and select stores (some shops might drop them a bit later on November 22, so keep an eye out).

Or, You can easily get them by entering the raffle at Tops and Bottoms with super fast delivery just within a few days after release.

🎲 ENTER THE RAFFLE AT TOPS & BOTTOMS

Also, stay on the loop with sneaker latest releases page because these are gonna sell fast, no doubt, so make sure you’re ready when they drop.

If you’re serious about picking up a pair, set those alarms, mark the date, do what you gotta do.