Shedeur Sander signs NIL deal with Nike
Shedeur Sanders, standout Colorado Buffaloes quarterback and son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, signs an NIL deal with Nike, continuing his father's legacy with officially licensed apparel and footwear. We discuss it here!
Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders #2 is tackled by UCLA defensive line Laiatu Latu #15 during an NCAA college football game between the UCLA and the Colorado, Oct. 28, 2023, in Pasadena, Calif.
Credit: Ringo Chiu
By: Joshua Martin
Standout Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders is following his father’s footsteps by signing an NIL deal with the uber popular athletic brand Nike. The son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur has rapidly emerged as one of college football’s brightest stars. As Deion’s relationship continues with upcoming releases of the renowned Nike Air Diamond Turf Max ‘96, his son will carry the legacy on the field with a deal that includes officially licensed apparel and footwear.
BREAKING: Nike has signed Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders to a NIL footwear & apparel deal. 📄✍️ pic.twitter.com/4M8oWVzijO
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) August 28, 2024
When asked about his father’s iconic line, The 22-year-old shared his thoughts on his future in footwear and the importance of the Nike Deion line.
“I would want to build on it. I want to build on it. Have like a different version. But I think concept, because I feel like it’s more… like now, like just looking at life and looking at everything, it’s more about generational. It’s more about what could be passed down year after year after year after year rather than everybody starting to think they’re whole new wave and whole new because there’s no real substance behind it. ”
Known for his poise in the pocket, strong arm, and ability to lead under pressure, Shedeur has proven he can perform on the biggest stages. In his collegiate debut, he broke Colorado’s single-game passing record with 510 yards, showcasing his pinpoint accuracy and elite playmaking ability.
Colorado opens their season Thursday (Aug. 29) against FCS powerhouse North Dakota State and expectations are at fever pitch after falling short of a bowl game last season. Sanders is currently ranked as one the best quarterbacks in the upcoming NFL Draft and a projected Heisman Award winner.
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Nike Confirms 'Halo' Kobe Protro 8 for Kobe's Birthday
Nike honors Kobe Bryant's legacy with Kobe 8 Retro Protro 'Halo' sneaker drop and youth basketball tournament on his 45th Birthday. We discuss it here!
Kobe Bryant (Kevin Winter/GettyImages)
By: Joshua Martin
Despite there being a bit of controversy surrounding Kobe Bryant’s estate and his wife Vanessa following the Los Angeles icon’s death in 2020, fans of the Nike Kobe line will receive another sneaker drop honoring the legend on what would have been the star’s 45th birthday.
The latest Kobe 8 retro Protro release from Nike will be available for the first time in full family-sizing on August 23, 2023, aligning with the vision of Vanessa Bryant that all of his fans should be able to wear his sneakers. First released in 2012, the updated version of the shoe will feature modern materials within the sneaker while sticking to its classic look.
For its reintroduction, we're getting a crisp all-white version of the silhouette. Officially nicknamed "Halo," the colorway was created by his wife as a way to honor Kobe's birthday each year. The shoe will be available through Nike SNKRS and select retailers online and in-store. The retail price for adults will be available ($180), big kids ($120), and little kids ($90).
“I am so proud that my husband’s shoes are still the most worn by players on NBA courts and that the demand for his shoes remain so desired by his fans around the world.”
In addition to the sneaker release, Nike will hold a two-day youth basketball tournament at LA's Crypto.com Arena beginning on Aug. 23 culminating on Mamba Day, Aug. 24.
“Kobe Bryant means so much to so many of us, not just NBA fans but globally beyond the game”
Vanessa Bryant hinted that "this will be one of the many Kobe 8 'Halo' styles coming soon." I personally am a fan of the Kobe Crazy 8’s from Adidas nevertheless the legacy of the Black Mamba will live on forever. On and off the court.
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Kyrie Irving Signs Shoe Deal with Chinese Sportswear Company ANTA
Kyrie Irving secures lucrative deals, including a $126 million contract extension and a groundbreaking five-year shoe endorsement, showcasing his expertise in basketball and business. We discuss it here!
Kyrie Irving lacing up his shoes before the 2023 NBA All Star Game in Salt Lake City, Utah. (credit: Jim Ice)
By: Adonis Armstrong
Earlier today July 12th, Kyrie Irving made an announcement on his Instagram Stories, revealing a new collaboration with Chinese sportswear company ANTA. Renowned journalist Shams Charania reported that the shoe endorsement agreement with the global brand will extend for five years and encompasses the special role of chief creative officer. The terms of the deal were reportedly negotiated through Irving's management entity A11Even.
Mavericks’ Kyrie Irving has signed a five-year endorsement deal with Chinese sportswear brand ANTA, plus the unique position of Chief Creative Officer at the company, industry sources told @TheAthletic @Stadium. Irving’s management company, A11Even, negotiated the deal. pic.twitter.com/HpJej7HU5X
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 12, 2023
In December 2022, Nike ended its partnership with Irving after he faced allegations of antisemitism due to sharing a controversial book on social media. This incident caused a rift between Irving and the Brooklyn Nets, ultimately resulting in his transfer to the Dallas Mavericks in February. Since then, Irving has issued an apology to the Jewish community for his actions. “To all Jewish families and communities that are hurt and affected from my post, I am deeply sorry to have caused you pain, and I apologize,” In his Instagram statement, he expressed at that moment. “I initially reacted out of emotion to being unjustly labeled antisemitic, instead of focusing on the healing process of my Jewish brothers and sisters that were hurt from the hateful remarks made in the documentary.”
The announcement coincides with Irving's recent contract extension with the Mavericks, a confirmed three-year deal worth $126 million according to the NBA. In an interview with The Dallas Morning News, team owner Mark Cuban elaborated on the organization's rationale behind retaining the NBA champion.
“I think Kyrie’s just misunderstood, you know,” Cuban said. “Everybody sees all the noise and everything around him, but when you actually talk to him, I like him. You know, he’s just, he’s open, he’s smart. You know, he’s always looking to learn things and to me, you know, he’s an interesting guy that’s just misunderstood… Kidd and I made the effort to really get to know him.”
Say what you want about Kyrie Irving, but he is making major moves in his career, securing a $126 million, three-year contract extension with the Dallas Mavericks and a groundbreaking five-year shoe endorsement deal with ANTA. Which he negotiated the deals himself and now holds a position of creative control within the company, allowing him to recruit future athletes to the brand. Irving's accomplishments highlight his expertise in both basketball and the business world.
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Kevin Durant Signs Lifetime Deal with Nike
NBA star Kevin Durant joins an exclusive group of Nike athletes, including Michael Jordan and LeBron James, as he signs a lifetime deal with the brand. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Today April 28th, Boardroom, the media network of NBA star Kevin Durant, announced that he had signed a lifetime contract with Nike, thereby joining an exclusive group of basketball players who have signed with the brand, such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Durant, who is 34 years old, will now be associated with Nike for the rest of his career.
The partnership between the basketball star and Nike began in 2007. Over the years, they have collaborated on 15 signature shoe releases, with the 16th expected to come out soon. In addition to footwear, Nike has also worked with Durant on his family foundation and EYBL program, showcasing the depth of their partnership beyond just the basketball court.
A true honor to be in the game for life with @Nike https://t.co/VNj1IJUVWG
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) April 28, 2023
“When I first signed with Nike, I couldn’t have dreamed of how far we’d go in this partnership. We’ve done amazing work creatively and philanthropically,” Durant said on the deal. We’ve traveled the world together and built a business that will now last forever. I’m excited for the future and honored to be in rare company with this deal.
The newly signed lifetime deal between Durant and Nike includes their continued partnership on community and philanthropic projects, as well as footwear and apparel. Nike's EVP of Global Sports Marketing, John Slusher, commented on Durant and the agreement in a statement.
“As one of best basketball players in the world, Kevin Durant has been an important part of the Nike family for the past 16 years. We look forward to continuing to serve the next generation of athletes together,” he said.
As Durant closes out a new deal, he aims to add another Larry O’Brien championship trophy to his resume after helping the Phoenix Suns advance to the second round of the NBA playoffs by defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 4-1. He and the Suns will face the Denver Nuggets in the second round, beginning this Saturday, April 29th.
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Nike Releases "Just Do It" Commerical With Colin Kaepernick At The Lead
The NFL will have to sit back and watch as its biggest sponsor, Nike, will display their “Just Do It'“ commercial featuring Colin Kaepernick during a Thursday night matchup between the Falcons and Eagles.
By: Omar Cook
The NFL season kicks off tonight with a week 1 matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons for a Thursday night matchup, but that's not even the real headline! Nike released its new commercial with Colin Kaepernick at the lead as he narrates the whole commercial! The even bigger catch is that Nike plans on showcasing it during the NFL opener tonight! LOL.
This is real reality tv. The NFL who has pretty much blackballed Kaepernick out of the league for protesting during the national anthem, will have to sit back and watch as its biggest sponsor puts Kaepernick on full display. This is a real life example of when you don't do right by someone, it comes back to you. The irony.
The commercial itself is a dope production, and if you aren't inspired by it or have something negative to say about it, there's a major chance that you're just a hater. People have been talking about a boycott of the NFL for some time now, but they are also calling for a boycott of Nike. Good luck. There have been a lot of naysayers about Nike making Kaepernick their head man for their "Just Do it" campaign, and none bigger than the president himself.
Check out the full Nike "Just Do It" commercial featuring Colin Kaepernick here!
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Nike's Decision To Feature Colin Kaepernick Has People Choosing Sides
Nike’s decision to feature Colin Kaepernick in their 30th anniversary campaign of their “Just Do It” motto has people choosing sides! What’s the real issue? We discuss it here!
“We believe Colin is one of the most inspirational athletes of this generation, who has leveraged the power of sport to help move the world forward”
By: Omar Cook
This might be one of the biggest plot twists of the year. Colin Kaepernick, who is currently suing NFL owners for allegedly conspiring to blackball him from the league, is the face of Nike's 30th anniversary campaign of their "Just Do It" motto. This is a bold statement coming from a major sports company, the same sports company that sponsors the NFL's uniforms. Sheesh.
Colin Kaepernick - Nike "Just Do It" Campaign
Kaepernick has been on the endorsement roster since 2011 but hasn't been actively used within the company in the past 2 years, so this is major unexpected news to the sports world. Nike has not shied away from taking a controversial stand in sports as it just recently supported Serena Williams and her decision to wear a black Nike catsuit despite it being officially banned from the future play at the French Open.
With today's political atmosphere, it's become increasingly difficult to keep politics out of the sports world and differences in opinions have fans choosing sides. With Nike making this bold decision to openly support Kaepernick, some consumers have begun to say that they will no longer support the brand and some have gone as far as even burning their Nike gear or cutting out logos. I mean seriously? Does it really make you that upset that a company would show their support for him? It makes you upset that a man stood up for something he believed in?
>> RELATED: The NFL Is The New Sunken Place
People aren't even hiding their racism anymore. It's been 2 whole years since Kaepernick started his protests for racial injustice and people are still asking, WHY he decided to kneel during the anthem! People are still using the same played out narrative that what he is doing is disrespectful to the military. I'm convinced of 2 things; 1) That certain people really just don't care what the truth is and want to keep convincing themselves that racism doesn't exist and 2) that basic reading comprehension is not a common skill for Americans. The information about what the protests are about is out, BEEN out there. People just pick and choose what narrative fits their mindset.
>> RELATED: The NFL’s New Policy Tells Black People Their Lives Do Not Matter
Trying to convince certain people that what Kaepernick is doing is the right thing is like talking to a wall. There are people that even try to compare him to military members by saying he isn't a true patriot because he took a knee during pregame; that real patriots are sacrificing their lives in the military and not just acting out as a "privileged" football player. These are the keyboard warriors of America. The people that would never have the courage to do what he did but have the audacity to say he isn't a true patriot. Keyword warriors, what have you done for this country that's so great? This is not 1950. Black people have a voice and whether you like it or not, it's going to be heard.
It's time for more major companies like Nike to make statements like this that push our country forward in support of justice for all. Despite these people saying they will never buy NIke again, truly I believe Nike will be ok. This is a worldwide brand that extends past racist Americans. Thank you Nike for standing up for people of color, as this is a huge step forward.
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What The "Serena Williams Rule" Says About Black Women In Sports
Serena Williams has been banned from wearing her Nike designed “catsuit” at the French Open. We discuss why this rule shows how black women are over sexualized because of their body!
“It will no longer be accepted. One must respect the game and the place.”
By: Omar Cook
Serena Williams is one of the greatest athletes in sports history, male or female. Having won multiple world titles, olympic medals, and consistently being ranked top in the world in her sport, she has more than paid her dues to the game. But even controversy finds the greatest of players.
Serena Williams took some time off from the game due to the birth of her child, and has been battling with her health and blood clots. Nike designed a special catsuit that was made to help her recover faster during competition, which she wore earlier this year in her return at the French Open. “Yeah, the catsuit, I had a lot of problems with my blood clots, and, God, I don’t know how many I have had in the past 12 months." Said Serena. “So it is definitely a little functionality to it. I have been wearing pants in general a lot when I play so I can keep, you know, the blood circulation going." She continued saying, “It’s a fun suit, but it’s also functional so I can be able to play without any problems.”
Serena Williams Wears Nike Catsuit at the French Open (TIM CLAYTON - CORBIS VIA GETTY IMAGES)
“It feels like this suit represents all the women that have been through a lot mentally, physically, with their body to come back and have confidence and to believe in themselves,” Said Serena Williams this past June, after her major win in Paris following the birth of her daughter. “I feel like a warrior in it, like a warrior princess kind of, queen from Wakanda. I’m always living in a fantasy world. I always wanted to be a superhero, and it’s kind of my way of being a superhero. I feel like a superhero when I wear it.”
French Tennis Federation president Bernard Giudicelli told Tennis Magazine that there will be a new dress code at the French Open going forward stating "I think that sometimes we've gone too far." He continued by saying "It will no longer be accepted. One must respect the game and the place."
We all know that Serena Williams has a curvy figure, but to make a rule specifically because of the way her body looks in athletic gear is not only sexist, but it speaks volumes to how black women are viewed. If we're being real, if a non-black woman with less of a curvy figure had worn this outfit, would this be an issue? Here we have an athlete, the best athlete in women's tennis history, being shamed for wearing an outfit designed to give her a health benefit. Are we saying that having too much curves is a problem now? Serena has been criticized before for wearing beads in her hair so the hate is nothing new.
Women should be able to promote body positivity and love themselves for how they are naturally shaped. Serena said she wore the suit to represent "all the moms out there who had a tough pregnancy and had to come back and try to be fierce." What message is really being sent by trying to limit what this woman wears in competition? If a full body suit is unacceptable, than what is acceptable?
Black women tend to have naturally curvy bodies are often sexualized because of their figures, and this new rule just perpetuates the over sexualization. Being too "thick" is not something that women should have to deal with or even be ashamed of, specifically black women. Women should be able to embrace their bodies without being ridiculed for it being seen as over the top. Men in positions of power need to check themselves about how they deal with women, and what they say. This is rule is ridiculous, and if we have to call it for what it is, it's blatant racism.
Meet Joshua Martin, Senior Video Editor for 247 Live Culture!
Email: Joshua@247LCTV.com