Kyrie Irving has been one of the most entertaining players of this generation. Drafted in 2011, Irving put on a show in his first season. Kyrie was the new hope for the Cavs after Lebron James’ departure in 2010. Irving’s popularity grew rapidly following his debut season, winning the Rookie of the Year Award. That wasn’t the end for Kyrie, as his skills put him on track to be one of the best ball handlers in the history of the league. His game showed glimpses of Allen Iverson and other players who had a smooth touch on the ball.
Irving had his own signature shoe line in 2014, signing an endorsement deal with Nike worth $11 million at the time. His shoes became popular among youngsters, especially high school players, playing point guard for their team. Nike already had higher-grossing products, being the brand behind the signature shoes of players like Kevin Durant and LeBron James. Nike had later on made its policies quite protective.
Why did Nike cut ties with Kyrie Irving?
Following Irving’s controversial social media post, Nike hinted at terminating its partnership with Kyrie. The deal was on the verge of expiring, when both the parties mutually put an end to the endorsement deal. The Kyries were one of the most popular signature shoes, which provided both comfort and great performance. Irving is not a Nike athlete anymore, though he has had new offers on the table.
Adidas has recently shown interest in signing Irving. The brand already has some big-time players under its contract. James Harden, Derrick Rose, and Damian Lillard are to name a few. To have Kyrie on board with the said names, Adidas will have a starting five of their own elite players.
While Nike has dominated the NBA collection since 2017, Adidas didn’t exactly go under. Their shoe deals with other NBA stars had only gotten more audience. Fans on Twitter bashed Nike, as the chances of the Adidas and Irving deal seem quite possible. “Nike Fumbled,” a fan wrote on Twitter.
Nike fumbled
— ️️ ً (@DestroyingWrld) May 24, 2023
As they should. Nike fumbled
— McDubs (@McDubs) May 24, 2023
Nike literally fumbled the bag big time
— BEN0HARRISoo7 (@BINONEEDITAll) May 24, 2023
YES I NEED MORE KYRIES
— YoungNarrow (@NarrowGaming) May 24, 2023
NIKE FUMBLED 🤡 WE BUYING ADIDAS NOW
— 𝔎𝔞𝔦💔 (@OwnedByKyrie) May 24, 2023
Other brands like Under Armour also have some of the best players of the league wear their logo on the court. Though considering Adidas to be the known brand for endorsements right after Nike, it would only make sense for Irving to sign with them, if he wishes to. It would be interesting to see whether Irving will rock Adidas in the upcoming season, as the Maverick will look to have a better season next year alongside his new teammate, Luka Doncic.
