A career-defining sequence for Kawhi Leonard occurred in a late-season game in 2017 that saw Kawhi take over on both sides of the court.
The score was 108-107 with the Houston Rockets having the slight advantage on a James Harden free throw with 39 seconds remaining. Kawhi was the unquestionable leader of the San Antonio Spurs and the ball was inbounded to him accordingly. Leonard would initiate the offense quickly by taking a LaMarcus Aldridge screen before raising up on the slow-reacting Nene for the go-ahead 3. Swish.
110-108, Spurs with 25 seconds remaining.
Harden felt he had the advantage after this shot and raced down the court, catching Kawhi on a half-court screen. The Beard went up with an off-balanced layup but the Klaw came out of nowhere for the giant block off the backboard. Leonard collected the rebound on the subsequent Aldridge block, with the impressive stretch placing Kawhi firmly in MVP conversations for years to come.
The footwear Kawhi rocked for this game was the Air Jordan XXXI. This 31st sneaker in the line took elements from the Air Jordan 1, with heel panels mimicking the original Air Jordan sneaker. The midfoot and toe featured a soft Flyweave material that proved durable as well. Full-length Zoom Air and a FlightSpeed plate provided maximum bounce no matter where your foot lands.
Kawhi rocked a Klaw PE colorway for this game-winner, but you can find similar colorways of the Air Jordan XXXI at StockX, Flight Club, Stadium Goods, and GOAT.
Cover image via NBA.com
