Ja Morant is the first player to sign a shoe deal in his draft class of 2019. The explosive guard is one of the finest young talents in the league. He signed with the global sports brand, Nike. His deal extends back to his rookie season when Nike signed him as he was coming into the league. Nike has other notable star athletes like LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and others. Despite that, Ja is a Nike athlete and has the full support of Nike.
Since the firing of Kyrie Irving as a Nike athlete, the sports brand has signed up Ja as their next signature athlete. This comes with the controversy Kyrie stirred after making anti-semitic material on Twitter. Kyrie lost millions after the deal was scrapped by Nike. Nike’s vice president, Scott Munson announced, “We are thrilled to add Morant to our signature roster and can’t wait for everyone to learn more about his first shoe, the Nike Ja 1.” Said, Munson.
Ja Morant’s $400 Nike JA 1 “Midnight” 🔥👟 pic.twitter.com/l6vMnIsY6Z
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) February 18, 2023
Ja signed a signature shoe deal with Nike and his signature line, Nike Ja 1, will be released on April 1, 2023. However, NBA fans were taken aback by the absurd price tag of his signature shoes, costing $400 a pair. Nonetheless, the $400 price tag is attached to just one colorway, “Midnight.” So it is fair to say his other signature shoes will set back the average consumer by $110.
With the upcoming release of Nike Ja 1, fans are curious to know more about the deal between Ja and Nike. As things stand, the Grizzlies guard signed a multi-year contract with Nike in 2019 which is worth around $12 million.
Nike stands with Ja Morant despite recent controversies
The American brand is receiving backlash after showing recent support to Morant during controversial times. For reference, Nike cut off ties with Kyrie Irving straight up when he was involved with anti-semitic content. Allegations have been made against Morant for punching a 17-year-old and flashing a gun at him. The Washington Post also brought to light the incident in the mall with the security guard.
Nike statement on Ja Morant: “We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being.”
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 5, 2023
Morant took responsibility for his actions and issued a public apology for flashing a gun in an Instagram Live video. According to Shams Charania, Nike took a different route, unlike Kyrie’s treatment. “We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being.” Said Nike in a statement on Morant.