What NBA Players Are Signed With Adidas? Founded and headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany, Adidas is the second-largest sportswear manufacturer in the world and the largest one in Europe. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was the pioneering NBA player to endorse Adidas. This year the company released an exclusive show honoring the top scorer in NBA history.

The Lakers-inspired shoe embraces the design of the Forum Low, a staple in Adidas’ shoe creations. The classic purple and gold come together for the body of the shoe while white consumes the sole. The shoe includes three white-and-purple colored stripes and the No. 33, which is the jersey the Lakers retired in honor of Abdul-Jabbar’s time with the team.

Only 33 pairs were available when the shoe was released on June 26. Each pair costs $1,000. Adidas was on top of the game when they signed Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady, Kevin Garnett, Gilbert Arenas, as well as Chauncey Billups at the beginning of the 2000s. However, Kobe left in July 2002 with the Adidas Equipment KB8 as his last signature shoes. Gilbert Arenas left in 2010 and Kevin Garnett also opted out of his contract in the same year.

A wide range of other prominent NBA players signed with Adidas, including Brandon Knight, Eric Gordon, Josh Smith, Andrew Wiggins, Tim Duncan, Jeremy Lin, Iman Shumpert, John Wall, and Nick Young. Adidas scored a huge victory in August 2015, when James Harden left Nike for Adidas by signing a 13-year contract reportedly worth $200 million dollars.

Derrick Rose

Derrick Rose’s signing with Adidas was a landmark moment in both his career and the history of basketball sponsorships. Before even getting to the details of his contract, it is worth notating that this partnership was massive, as it spanned an astounding total of 14 years and was worth $185 million. Very few players in the league have ever received deals of this magnitude- which makes Rose one of the highest-paid athletes in sports sponsorship history.

It was no secret that Rose’s meteoric rise in the NBA was one of the most electrifying things to watch on the court. His technical excellence coupled with his athleticism made him a breathtakingly smooth scorer. After Rose’s MVP season in 2011, Adidas knew the type of talent they were working with and made a move to secure him as a brand ambassador. This sole deal would see Rose become Adidas’s poster child and also take up their mantle as the face of basketball promotions for years to come.

The iconic deal was broken down by Forbes back when the announcement was made in 2012. Some terms of the agreement included incentives, bonuses, and various perks designed to keep Rose happy and performing at the highest level. One of these benefits was the inclusion of a private jet, which made traveling from game to game easier and more comfortable for Rose and his team. In addition, the deal also afforded Rose certain bonuses that were tied to his on-court performance, such as if he managed to lead the league in scoring or won an NBA championship.

Aside from the lucrative financial aspects of the deal, what sets it apart is how it benefitted Rose’s inner circle as well. The contract structured by Rose’s over-the-top team included compensation for his older brother, Reggie, who was given a salary of $250,000. This act of kinship was a testament to Rose’s loyalty and generosity towards those who had always been there for him, standing beside him as his career took off in the league. Even Rose’s best friend was provided for in the details of the contract, again showcasing his selfless and thoughtful approach to those around him.

While the deal with Adidas did eventually end, its impact remains a key piece in the history of basketball sponsorships and sports partnerships as a whole. Though he may have faced a number of challenges in his career since signing the Adidas deal, Derrick Rose has continued to evolve as both a player and a person. However, there is no denying the fact that his partnership with Adidas was a significant factor that elevated him to legendary status and made him an icon on and off the court.

James Harden

When James Harden was awarded the MVP title in 2018, it was a monumental achievement that he had been working towards his whole career. It was a validation of his tremendous talent and hard work, as he had established himself as one of the greatest offensive players in NBA history. Harden had become known for his exceptional scoring ability, his mastery of the step-back jump shot, and his skill in drawing fouls from defenders. His offensive control and ability to dominate the game made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.

The recognition of Harden’s talents went beyond the NBA world. Adidas, recognizing his incredible skill and appeal, was quick to partner with him and launch the highly successful “Harden Vol.” line of signature shoes. The partnership between Harden and Adidas was a perfect match, as both parties shared a commitment to excellence and a desire to push boundaries.

The Harden Vol. line of shoes is more than just a marketing venture for Adidas; it is a testament to the performance and style that James Harden brings to the game. These shoes are specifically designed to provide players with the agility and control necessary to excel on the court. The focus on speed and grip ensures that players can make quick cuts, sudden stops, and change direction without sacrificing stability. The exceptional traction of the shoes helps to keep players firmly grounded, allowing them to maintain control of their movements even in high-intensity basketball games.

In addition to their performance benefits, the Harden Vol. shoes are visually captivating. They reflect James Harden’s unique fashion sense and personal style. Adidas has leveraged Harden’s iconic image and charisma to create shoes that not only perform exceptionally but also make a fashion statement on and off the court. The bold color combinations, intricate designs, and attention to detail in each release of the Harden Vol. line reflect Harden’s individuality and have contributed to the shoes’ popularity among fans and sneaker enthusiasts.

The impact of James Harden’s shoe deal with Adidas extends beyond financial success. It is a testament to his unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of greatness. The Harden Vol. line represents his skills, strength, and control on the court. The partnership has solidified his status as an icon in the NBA and has become an essential part of his legacy.

As the years have passed, the Harden Vol. sneakers have continued to generate excitement and interest with each new release. Their popularity has cemented James Harden’s place among the basketball greats and has even transcended the sport itself. The partnership between Harden and Adidas, with its focus on his unstoppable offensive game, charismatic persona, and unique style, will be remembered as a defining moment in the sneaker industry and in Harden’s career.

Overall, the MVP win and the Adidas shoe deal have been transformative for James Harden, elevating him to legendary status both on and off the court. The partnership with Adidas has not only given him a platform to showcase his skills but has also allowed him to leave a lasting impact on the sneaker world. Harden’s dedication, hard work, and unparalleled offensive game will continue to inspire fans and athletes for years to come.

Damian Lillard

Damian Lillard has undoubtedly earned his stripes as one of the top point guards in the NBA, following closely behind basketball giant, Stephen Curry. His consistent performances, ability to deliver clutch moments, and his calm and composed demeanor have solidified his reputation as one of the league’s elite players. Lillard’s uncanny ability to hit buzzer-beating shots and his knack for coming through in high-pressure situations never fails to wow professionals and fans alike.

In recognition of his exceptional play, Damian Lillard was awarded the NBA bubble Most Valuable Player title. His ability to maintain calm and quiet composure, coupled with his incredible consistency, has made him an invaluable asset to his team, the Portland Trail Blazers.

Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, Lillard may not be the tallest player on the court, but he more than makes up for it with his offensive efficiency and long-range shooting. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, especially from beyond the arc, has made him a popular choice with young fans around the world. Lillard’s skills and relentless work ethic have inspired a new generation of basketball players who strive to emulate his style of play.

Off the court, Damian Lillard is known by his rapper moniker, ‘Dame D.O.L.L.A.’, which has only added to his widespread popularity. Even professional musicians have recognized Lillard’s talent and give raving reviews of his rap skills. This off-court persona has further endeared him to fans and expanded his fanbase beyond the basketball court.

The swag, coolness, and elite element that Damian Lillard brings to both basketball and his rap career are seamlessly infused into the design of his signature shoes. Adidas has carefully incorporated Lillard’s unique style and personality into every aspect of the shoe’s design. Brilliant colors, cool graphic prints, and eye-catching details are key features of the Dame signature shoe line.

Aside from aesthetics, the functionality of Lillard’s shoes is of utmost importance. The proprietary Lightstrike midsoles incorporated into the design provide the fastest and most lightweight cushion technology to date. This cushioning technology not only enhances performance but also offers ultimate comfort for players during intense games.

Additionally, the shoes prioritize stability through a lock-down fit and supportive mesh uppers. This ensures that the foot is securely supported during every move, allowing players to move with confidence and agility on the court.

The popularity of Damian Lillard’s signature shoes continues to grow as they consistently resonate with fans and players alike. Each new release becomes highly anticipated, with basketball and sneaker enthusiasts clamoring to get their hands on the latest design. The shoe line not only pays homage to Lillard’s skills and achievements but also reflects his unique style and influence within the basketball community.

Through his signature shoe line, Damian Lillard has left an indelible mark on the NBA and the world of sneakers. His unwavering dedication to his craft, both on and off the court, has elevated his status as a true icon in the sports and entertainment world. As Lillard continues to excel in his career, fans can look forward to new iterations of his signature shoes that embody his legacy, style, and the unwavering passion he brings to the game of basketball.