Kevin Durant’s lifetime contract with Nike Inc solidifies his status in an elite club that includes Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it will include footwear, apparel, and community outreach.
Durant’s partnership with Nike began in 2007 when he was drafted by the Seattle Supersonics and has since spawned 15 signature shoes with another in the works.
Apart from his on-court accomplishments, Durant, 34, has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including collaborations with Nike on court refurbishments and grassroots basketball programs.
“As one of the best basketball players in the world, Durant has been an essential part of the Nike family for the past 16 years,” Nike EVP of Global Sports Marketing, John Slusher, said. They look forward to continuing to serve the next generation of athletes together.
The lifetime deal with Nike is a significant milestone for Durant, who currently ranks 13th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. His lifetime contract with Nike provides him with the opportunity to continue earning with Nike for decades after his retirement.
“A true honor to be in the game for life with Nike,” Durant said of his signing with Nike.
Meanwhile, Jordan’s brand partnership with Nike remains strong, generating $5.1 billion in the fiscal year 2022 alone, with the basketball legend receiving 5% of the profits generated.
Durant, James, and Jordan all have a combination of twelve championships. Jordan won all six of his championships with the Chicago Bulls, while Durant won two with the Golden State Warriors winning both NBA Finals MVP titles.
James currently has four championships with three different teams that include two with the Miami Heat, one with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and one with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Nike is currently contracted with the NBA on an eight-year deal where they wear their apparel and logo appearing on the uniforms.
“When I first signed with Nike, I couldn’t have dreamed of how far we’d go in this partnership. We’ve done amazing work creatively and philanthropically. We’ve traveled the world together and built a business that will now last forever. I’m excited about the future and honored to be in rare company with this deal,” said Durant of moving forward with Nike.
Durant first started his career with the Seattle Supersonics where the team moved to Oklahoma City becoming the Thunder. He was the franchise player until 2016 when signed with the Golden State Warriors where he won two championships as the MVP. After the 2019 season, Durant signed with the Brooklyn Nets until he was traded to the Phoenix Suns in 2023, who he currently plays for in the NBA.
The NBA star has three gold medals from the Summer Olympics where he played for the U.S. Mens Basketball Team.
Produced in association with Benzinga
