Sneaker News · First Look
LI-NING × CURRY'S FIRST SIGNATURE SHOE?
Stephen Curry's latest offseason appearances may have given us the clearest hints yet at his developing partnership with Li-Ning—and a possible first look at his new signature basketball shoe.
Even though it is the offseason, Stephen Curry's schedule has been packed. Curry found time to compete in the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament, where he finished third overall with 59 points. It was also the best result among all participating NBA players—another reminder that his golf game is on a different level.
A Visible Sign of the Li-Ning Partnership
One detail from the tournament was especially hard to miss: Curry wore a Curry Brand × Li-Ning baseball cap throughout the event. The cap featured a special logo combining elements from both brands, offering another clear hint at their highly anticipated partnership.
For sneaker fans, however, the biggest question remains the same: when will Curry and Li-Ning officially unveil and release their first signature basketball shoe together?
An Exclusive Qicheng Golf Shoe
Curry also competed in a pair of Li-Ning 1990 Qicheng golf shoes. Unlike the standard retail version, his pair appeared to be a Curry Brand-exclusive custom edition. The shoe retained the original Qicheng silhouette, with a Curry Brand logo subtly added to the tongue.
Whether this special edition will ever receive a public release remains unknown, but it looked like another early preview of what the two brands may be developing together.
The cap and customized golf shoes suggest that Curry Brand × Li-Ning is already developing a broader visual identity—not just a single basketball release.
Is This Our First Look at the Li-Ning Curry 1?
After the tournament, Curry returned to basketball training. In the latest workout photos, a clean white pair of Way of Wade 12s can be seen nearby, while the shoe in his hands may be our first look at the rumored Li-Ning Curry 1.
The possible Curry 1 features a simple but eye-catching black-and-white “Panda” colorway. Its upper appears to combine a one-piece pearl-white molded shell with a black low-cut, sock-like inner bootie. Sculpted cutouts along the sides give the shoe a distinctive identity, while the flowing pattern may reference Curry's signature three-point celebration gesture.
That said, the overall shape does bear a noticeable resemblance to the adidas Harden Vol. 9, especially through the molded outer shell and low inner construction.
What We Still Do Not Know
There is still no official confirmation that this shoe is the Li-Ning Curry 1. Its cushioning system, plate setup, outsole compound, weight, release date and retail price have also yet to be revealed.
Until Curry Brand or Li-Ning confirms the model, all naming and performance details should be treated as speculation based on the available training images.
Once more reliable information becomes available, we will continue to bring you the latest updates.
