Kevin Durant Continues "Aunt Pearl" Tradition with the Nike KD 18

Throughout his professional basketball career, Kevin Durant has allowed spectators into his life through interviews, social media posts, and his signature Nike Basketball line of sneakers. The most latter area of the bunch has touched on the NBA All-Star's love of music, favorite childhood toy, and even his on-court monikers. One touch point that's endured over the last decade-and-change has been Durant's tribute to his great "Aunt Pearl," a figure that's now being commemorated on the KD 18.

The KD 4 from 2012 kicked off the current Houston Rocket's homage to his family member, but the style—usually a pink-heavy color scheme complemented by either pearl or floral graphics—has landed on all mainline Nike KD designs since. The KD 18 "Aunt Pearl" doesn't deviate from the theme's signature elements, but opts for a lighter-colored makeover overall.

The bulk of the sneaker features a faint shade of pink. allowing for the floral print across the profile "cages" and inner lining to revel in the spotlight. Laces also command attention with their fuchsia-like finish. Swooshes on both sides of the heel also play with the sneaker's color palette, which presents a speckled touch on the midsoles. Initial photos from size? don't reveal any direct call out to Durant's great aunt, nor the cancer that ultimately cost her her life, but these details could arrive on the tongue's underside or throughout packaging.

Enjoy detailed shots of the thematic pair ahead. The "Aunt Pearl" KD 18 should release via Nike.com by October.

For more sneaker news, check out the latest Jordan releases.