Bay Area Icon Klay Thompson Gets Two ANTA KTX Releases—But Does He Deserve It?

The legend of Klay Thompson remains strong in the Bay Area, but let’s be real—should it? As one-half of the Splash Brothers and a key factor in Golden State’s four NBA championships, Klay has cemented himself as a NorCal sports icon. But with age creeping in and the Warriors struggling to reclaim their former dominance, it’s fair to ask: Is Klay Thompson still that guy?

Well, whether you think he’s still a force or just living off past glory, ANTA has made its stance clear—Thompson is him. The Chinese sportswear giant just released two new colorways of his KTX signature shoe, proving that Klay’s presence on the court (or at least in sneaker culture) is far from fading. Even if he’s sitting out the All-Star festivities, he’s still making headlines in the sneaker game. Let’s break down what makes these kicks special—and whether they’re actually worth the hype.

The “Moneyball” KTX: A Nostalgic Power Move or a Reach?

The first release, the Moneyball KTX, arrives in an icy mint green—because apparently, nothing screams “lethal shooter” like pastel. But behind the color choice is a very specific memory: Klay’s 2016 Three-Point Contest victory over his own teammate, Steph Curry. Yes, that’s right—ANTA is immortalizing a moment from eight years ago to remind us that, once upon a time, Klay was the deadliest sniper in the league.

Now, don’t get it twisted. That was a legendary moment. Watching Klay drain that final rack to snatch the crown from Steph was peak Warriors history. But is this really the milestone we’re celebrating in 2025?

Still, the sneaker does have some fire details. Intricate patterns inspired by US currency are woven throughout the upper, because if there’s one thing Klay Thompson deserves, it’s to be paid like a superstar. Holographic touches and a guilloche pattern add a luxe feel to the shoe, making it clear that while Klay’s game may fluctuate, his legacy (and his sneaker line) still hold value.

The “$3 Coin” KTX: Genius Concept or Pure Gimmick?

Then there’s the $3 Coin KTX, a shoe so drenched in matte gold that you might need sunglasses just to look at it. Inspired by both Klay’s insane accuracy from deep and the rare $3 coin produced at the San Francisco Mint, this sneaker is a nod to scarcity, precision, and, well, money. Because let’s face it—if you’re still rocking Klay Thompson’s kicks in 2025, you probably believe he’s worth every penny.

The design itself is nothing short of opulent. A translucent icy outsole with gold flecks gives it a premium touch, while lenticular details on the upper provide a level of depth that Klay’s game (arguably) still has. Whether you see this as an elite tribute to one of the best shooters in NBA history or an over-the-top attempt to make Klay seem rarer than he actually is, one thing’s for sure: The $3 Coin KTX is designed to make a statement.

Are These Kicks Actually Worth Copping?

Let’s get to the real question: Should you actually buy these? If you’re a die-hard Klay fan, the answer is obvious. These sneakers are loaded with history, symbolism, and just enough hype to make them collector’s items. But if you’re looking for a pair of basketball shoes based purely on performance, it’s a bit more complicated.

ANTA’s tech has come a long way, and Klay’s KTX line has been steadily improving. But let’s be honest—these aren’t Jordans. They aren’t Nikes. And outside of the Bay Area and China, rocking a pair of ANTA KTX might still get you some raised eyebrows. But maybe that’s the point. Maybe copping these kicks is about more than just brand recognition—it’s about proving that you know greatness when you see it, even if the mainstream media isn’t talking about Klay as much anymore.

The Bigger Picture: Is Klay Still a Bay Area Legend?

There’s no denying that Klay Thompson has done more for the Warriors than most players could ever dream of. But as the Warriors struggle to keep up in a rapidly evolving Western Conference, we have to ask: How much longer will Klay’s legacy keep him in the conversation?

Releasing these sneakers is a bold move. It’s ANTA doubling down on Klay’s influence, even when the rest of the league might be looking elsewhere. If nothing else, the Moneyball and $3 Coin KTX remind us that Klay is still here, still making noise, and still a crucial part of Warriors history.

But if the Warriors don’t reclaim their dominance soon, and if Klay’s numbers continue to dip, these sneakers might become less of a tribute to his greatness and more of a reminder that time spares no one—not even a Splash Brother.

Final Verdict: Hype or History in the Making?

At the end of the day, these ANTA KTX releases do exactly what they’re supposed to: keep Klay Thompson relevant. Whether you see them as a rightful celebration of one of the game’s best shooters or a desperate attempt to keep Klay’s name in sneaker conversations is up to you. But one thing’s certain—if you’re still doubting Klay Thompson’s impact, these sneakers are here to remind you that legends don’t fade quietly.

So, are you copping or passing? Either way, the debate over Klay’s greatness just got another layer—and that’s exactly what makes these kicks worth talking about