The question is not if, but who will be giving rising star Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks his own signature sneaker. The “Greek Freak” had a very impressive season in 2016-17 with an even more impressive performance in the postseason proving that he has what it takes to one day be the face of this league. And that day may come sooner than you think.
At the moment Giannis is under contract with Nike, but he is already being courted by competitors adidas and Li-Ning. adidas already sent him a van full of of goodies, including Yeezys, Ultra Boosts and apparel. His contract with Nike expires at the end of the month and he is in line for a big pay day.
According to Nick DePaula of ESPN, “ultimately, brands are looking for Antetokounmpo to lead his own signature line of sneakers, with design input and hands-on feedback along the way. In conversations this week with Adidas, Nike and Li-Ning, each is offering a signature shoe that would likely launch during the 2018-19 NBA season. For this upcoming year, he’d lead a series of player exclusive editions in Bucks hues of each brand’s current featured models, like the Adidas Crazy Explosive 2017, Nike Kobe A.D. or Li-Ning Yu Shuai 11.” One thing worth mentioning is that Chinese brand Li-Ning is a serious suitor in these talks as they can offer Giannis the most money with an offer of more than eight figures annually. The contract could also possibly feature an equity or stock component, something that Nike and adidas will not offer.
As the week winds down, each brand is expected to present an initial five-year contract offer and engage in negotiations with Antetokounmpo’s representatives at Octagon Sports. Should Antetokounmpo opt to sign an offer sheet with either adidas or Li-Ning, Nike can fully use its match clause and take up to 20 business days to decide whether or not to let Antetokounmpo walk.
Who do you think the rising superstar will end up signing with? We’ll all find out soon enough. Keep it locked to Kicks On Fire for updates.
via: ESPN
The post adidas, Nike, And Li-Ning Are Hoping To Make Giannis Antetokounmpo Their Next Signature Athlete appeared first on KicksOnFire.com.