Kawhi Leonard looks to be facing a different type of free agency ahead of the 2018-19 campaign.
Jordan Brand is not planning to work out an extension on Leonard's endorsement deal after it expires later this year. Talks broke down after he rejected a four-year, $22-million contract, industry sources told ESPN's Nick DePaula.
While adjusting to a new team in a new country, Leonard could begin taking meetings as early as next week. Some companies allow their clients to meet with other suitors up to 60 days ahead of a contract expiring. In most cases, shoe deals run until Sept. 30.
Companies aren't so much worried about how the 27-year-old will look when he plays again, but more so his reluctance to wear new releases during games, as well as his disinterest in doing commercials.
The new Raptors forward is virtually non-existent on social media, as he doesn't have an Instagram or Facebook account and hasn't tweeted since 2015.
Other notable free agents on the shoe market include Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, Minnesota Timberwolves swingman Andrew Wiggins, and Golden State Warriors big man DeMarcus Cousins.
Boston Celtics forward Gordon Hayward is also looking for a new affiliation. According to DePaula, New Balance has expressed a strong desire to relaunch its basketball line with the 28-year-old.
