James Harden will join Adidas as Nike opts not to match 13-year, $200 million offer | ESPN
Adidas has taken Houston Rockets guard James Harden away from Nike with a 13-year, $200 million offer.
Harden's agent, Rob Pelinka, negotiated the deal. Pelinka confirmed on Thursday that Nike informed him that it would not match the term sheet from Adidas. The deal with Harden, which will have him wearing Adidas shoes on the court and gear in social settings, officially begins on Oct. 1.
As of now, Harden will average $16.78 million on the final three years of his deal with the Rockets and $15.38 million annually from Adidas. But if Harden hits certain benchmarks, it's possible he will earn more annually from Adidas than the Rockets.
Aside from a signature shoe, a Harden apparel line is expected along with branded marketing commitments. Harden and Adidas are also expected to attempt to disrupt the shoe marketplace amid underwhelming successes for the brand.
Bold & smart move by Adidas!
Gotta catch up with UNDER ARMOUR which is now the 2nd largest apparel seller in the US.