When Kian set out to design his custom LeBron XIII, he decided to turn it into a tribute to his favorite athlete, King James himself. Since LeBron is said to have the heart of a lion, Kian chose colors that represent sunrise on the savannah, where lions roam. LeBron’s signature makes an appearance, as does a stylized lion logo.

Kian added plenty of details about his own life as well. On the sockliner, he created his very own family crest that celebrates the things he values most: faith, family, perseverance, and of course, basketball. You’ll also find the words forever grateful, which is a Safholm family motto. “Whenever we talk about my experience, my dad says he’ll be forever grateful to the Doernbecher team for saving my life,” explained Kian.

When Kian grows up, he wants to be a professional basketball player for, you guessed it, the Cleveland Cavs. “Maybe LeBron will be the coach by then,” Kian grinned.  In the more immediate future, Kian hopes to see lots of people rocking his Freestyle shoe. His biggest wish would be to see them on the athlete they were created for. 

Kian says the best thing about his shoe is all the good it will do for other young patients. “There’s a lot of kids fighting at Doernbecher right now, and they need all the help they can get. Being able to do something for them makes me feel really good inside.”

Kian’s one-of-a-kind footwear, apparel and equipment designs will be sold on a one-of-a-kind footwear, apparel and equipment designs will be sold on a limited edition basis at Nike retail locations and on Nike.com, with proceeds benefitting OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

Kian says the best thing about his shoe is all the good it will do for other young patients. “There’s a lot of kids fighting at Doernbecher right now, and they need all the help they can get. Being able to do something for them makes me feel really good inside.”

Kian’s one-of-a-kind footwear, apparel and equipment designs will be sold on a one-of-a-kind footwear, apparel and equipment designs will be sold on a limited edition basis at Nike retail locations and on Nike.com, with proceeds benefitting OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.