This story appears in SLAM KICKS 28. Available now.

We’re back, and we’re better—just like this past NBA season’s on-court footwear. For years, the KICKS Awards have served as that ultimate stamp of approval for those who are constantly cooking in heaters. And during the 2024-25 season, we saw more diversity than ever. OGs and rooks alike reignited the idea of rocking grails on the hardwood; see Peyton Watson, P.J. Tucker and Ron Holland II for specifics. Devin Booker, Stephen Curry, James Harden, Anthony Edwards, Ja Morant and Jayson Tatum all brought new life to the signature ecosystem with divergent designs. Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan resolidified his stance as the king of Kobes with a slew of PEs returning from seasons’ past.

Trends, styles and tastes have quickly evolved over the past few years. So we did, too, with a few new additions to the lineup. Alongside the first and second teams, we’ve added the inaugural KICKS Third Team to accurately reflect the rapidly growing pace of signatures and Player Exclusive colorways across the L.

The nightly frequency of Beans since 2019 has grown to the point where Kobe’s modern-day disciples could have their own award section. And now they do. For the very first time, the 2024-25 KICKS Awards include the All-Kobe Team, comprised of five guys notoriously known for showcasing their sneaker knowledge through Kobe’s signature lineup.

And of course, we’ve got the Rookie of the Year, Most Improved Player and MVP. This story, and so much more, is included in the latest issue of KICKS 28. Grab your copy now.

First Team

Second Team

Third Team

All-Kobe Team

MVP – DeMar DeRozan

Most Improved Player – De’Aaron Fox

Rookie of the Year – Ron Holland II

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Photos via Getty Images.