Following up on the Year of the Dragon PEs that Evan Turner wore during All-Star Weekend, Li-Ning is releasing four styles of the YOTD kicks today. The four styles are “Chinese Dragon Blue and White Porcelain Turningpoints” (the version Turner had on during the Rising Stars Game), “Emperor’s Robe Yellow and Blue Turningpoints,” “Orange and Blue Hero” and “Black and Gold Villian.” All four will be available starting today via Li-Ning’s online shop, and will retail at $175 per pair. But wait, here’s the catch—according to the company, only 44 pairs of each style will be available for purchase, so get on them quick. More details, straight from Li-Ning:
The special edition line was designed in honor of the Year of the Dragon, which occurs every 12 years in Chinese astrology and symbolizes Eastern principles that drive the Li-Ning brand. This year in particular is personified by characteristics of mastery of authority and ambition.
The blue and white Porcelain Turningpoint shoe made its debut during the 2012 NBA All Star Weekend, worn by Philadelpha 76ers’ Evan Turner during the Rising Stars Game. Turner, an official Li-Ning endorser, was also born in 1988 which was the last year of the dragon.
Designed to incorporate thousands of years of Chinese art and culture, the styles each have their own meaning. For instance, the Emperor’s Robe is named for the bold yellow hue worn by rulers of the Tang Dynasty, while the Porcelain’s intricate, hand-drawn pattern was inspired by ancient Chinese porcelain vases depicting a dragon.
