Video game publisher 2K Australia has teamed up with Gamilaroi and Wiradjuri artist Allan McKenzie to create a limited-edition shoe inspired by the NBA 2K22 game.
The partnership has seen McKenzie customise a pair of Adidas Harden Stepback 2.0 basketball shoes to be sold at auction.
The proceeds of the sale will go towards McKenzie's nominated Indigenous charity, Red Dust.
Speaking on the project, McKenzie said he was thrilled to collaborate with 2K.
"I’m honoured that 2K asked me to collaborate on one of their most popular games, which drove most of the inspiration behind the design of the shoe along with the game of basketball.
"It’s amazing to be able to have my designs auctioned off to a cause close to my heart, that ties in so well with NBA 2K22," he said.
The auction of the shoes will go live on Red Dust's eBay page on February 21 and will close on March 02 2022.
The funds will support Red Dust to continue its health promotion programs and community development projects in remote communities throughout Australia.
Red Dust CEO Scott Stirling said the partnership with 2K and McKenzie aligned perfectly with the organisation.
"As we commence delivery of Red Dust’s Healthy Living Program in remote communities this year we’re excited to partner with Allan and 2K for this unique initiative.
"Basketball is deeply embedded in Red Dust’s history.
"Our founder, John Van Groningen, was closely connected with the NBL and our first visits to remote communities involved NBL star players as volunteers.
"Their efforts inspired hundreds of athletes to follow suit across 25 years, engaging in inspirational two-way exchanges with thousands of young Aboriginal kids in remote communities," he said.
This collaboration marks the first time Red Dust has teamed up with a global video game publisher.
Alongside NBA 2K22, 2K publishes games including Borderlands, WWE 2K and BioShock.
