New Balance x Kawhi Leonard
When you’re challenged to build a brand new basketball court from the ground up by NBA Superstar Kawhi Leonard in his hometown, you welcome it with arms wide open.
What we did
Kawhi Leonard grew up in Moreno Valley, the second largest city in Riverside County about an hour east of downtown Los Angeles. As one of the largest populations in the Inland Empire, growing up with only one full sized court in the city posed its challenges.
The New Balance athlete took charge partnering with 2K Foundations to give back by building yet another court in his hometown where kids and community members could play.
After working with Mr. Brainwash on a Los Angeles mural with the LA Clippers, Kawhi knew he had to enlist him to bring his message to the court. Mr. Brainwash understood the assignment and used Kawhi’s words of inspiration and encouragement to motivate the community through art. The community showed up on launch day to listen to Kawhi’s strong speech on why a basketball court is so necessary in preparing the youth for the outside world. Kids were adorned with New Balance shoes and had the chance to partake in a scrimmage. The city and community were beyond elated to have a new, beautiful space filled with positive affirmations to enjoy.
