James Harden, adidas make it official, ink $200M deal

James Harden will reportedly sign with adidas later this week, after Nike decided it’s unwilling to match the incredible $200 million offer to the Houston Rockets star.

According to TMZ, the fact that Harden’s girlfriend Khloe Kardashins sported bright coral floral Adidas jacket gear with a huge logo of the brand on her back at Drew League game this weekend signifies that Harden will hook up with Adidas. His connection with fans is unparalleled and unprecedented and he can take the game, our brand and the industry to new heights.

Damian Lillard, John Wall and Andrew Wiggins are also signed by adidas. Harden is the kind of star Adidas has been looking for, as Adidas gives away to Nike as the National Basketball Association apparel provider starting the 2016-17 season. From Adidas, Harden will earn $15.38 million annually, but there’s a strong possibility he will eventually earn more annually from Adidas than the Rockets (as long as he hits benchmarks). “His addition to the adidas basketball family is a game changer”.

Aside from a signature shoe, a Harden apparel line is expected along with branded marketing commitments.

James Harden will join Adidas on a $200 million contract that begins when he reports to training camp in October.

“When Harden was traded to Houston, he stepped out from the shadows of his superstar teammates and became one in his own right”. The partnership includes Harden traveling on what Adidas calls “extensive brand tours” in Europe and Asia. He’s already one of the most recognizable sports figures because of his game, his look, his hunger to win and his style on the off the court.

The German company, which has its North American headquarters and basketball division in Portland, has been struggling to keep up with Nike, which combined with its Jordan brand accounts for roughly 96 percent of U.S. basketball shoe sales. Under Armour overtook adidas last year for the second spot. The biggest fish in the National Basketball Association with an adidas deal is Bulls point guard Derrick Rose.