Report: Adidas hoping to steal Giannis from Nike
Some of the biggest shoe companies on the planet will soon be lining up for the opportunity to land one of the league's brightest young stars.
With Giannis Antetokounmpo's current endorsement deal with Nike set to expire at the end of September, Adidas is among several companies hoping to sign the Bucks forward to a lucrative contract, according to ESPN's Nick DePaula.
With current endorsers James Harden, Damian Lillard, and Derrick Rose all guards, Adidas is looking to add an "explosive" wing to its roster.
"There's an icon shoe foot to be filled, so to speak," Adidas director of basketball sports marketing Michael Ladinig said. "An above-the-rim style of player, that style isn't necessarily represented enough in our current portfolio of players - that explosive, dominant and highly athletic player."
Adidas hasn't been shy to dole out money in the past, handing a 13-year deal to Harden in 2015.
Adidas reportedly won't be the only company to try to lure Antetokounmpo, as Under Armour is also expected to go after the 22-year-old this fall.
Despite taking home the Most Improved Player award and All-NBA honors, Giannis made just $25,000 with Nike this past season.