We look at why some of the NBA's most recognizable players are signing with overseas sneaker brands.
Dec 8, 2015 by Joe Battaglia
By Brett Pickert
What if I told some of the leagues most recognizable players are signed with brands overseas? China to be exact. Klay Thompson, Dwyane Wade, Kevin Garnett, just to name a few are all signed with signatures to boot. Clay Thompson holds one of his Anta sneakers. So, why NBA players?
The NBA is arguably the most popular league in China. With players like Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian, it helped boost the popularity of basketball and the NBA. Even though China possess strong nationalism, the country’s favorite players include Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James. Sounds familiar right? The Chinese fan base loves the flash, scoring prowess and thrill American fans enjoy.
Who are these Brands?
Peak, Anta and Li-Ning all have former all-stars and future hall-of-famers on their roster.
Peak currently has Carl Landry, Beno Udrih, Anthony Morrow, CJ Watson, CJ Miles, Miles Plumlee, Kyle Singler, Andrew Nicholson, George Hill (Signature), Tony Parker (Signature), Chase Budinger, and Dwight Howard (signature). Previously, Peak had Shane Battier, Jason Richardson, Kevin Love, Ron Artest, Sasha Vujacic, Kyle Lowry, Patrick Patterson, and Jason Kidd. Of those guys, Kidd and Parker are sure to be in the Hall of Fame. While Dwight Howard, Kevin Love, and Ron Artest have all made All-Star game experiences.
Dwayne Wade with former Olympian and Chinese sneaker company founder Li Ning. Anta has Rajon Rondo, Chandler Parsons, Kevin Garnett, and Klay Thompson. All with signature sneakers and All-Star appearances with Parsons being the sole exception.
Li-Ning has arguably made the biggest push for exposure in the NBA arena. In 2012, Li-Ning signed Dwyane Wade to a 10-year $60 million deal. With a roster previously filled with Damon Jones, Baron Davis, and Shaquille O’Neal, Wade was in good hands after leaving Jordan Brand. Li-Ning gave Wade his own signature sneaker which is now in its fourth rendition.
Is this good or bad?
Definitely more good than bad. Yes, it sucks that more NBA players are going to these offshore brands but its good for variety on the court. It wasn’t too long ago that all you saw was Nike and adidas on the hardwood. Also, its great to see more international brands in the second most popular sport (viewership and participation) in the world. All this can do is grow the sport and the NBA brand rather than hinder.
