National Basketball Association

New York Knicks: Kristaps Porzingis Signs Historic Shoe Deal

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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New York Knicks phenom Kristaps Porzingis has agreed to a historically lucrative contract with adidas. Find out the details and what makes it so special.

The New York Knicks aren’t the only household name investing multiple years in the services of one Kristaps Porzingis. Fresh off of one of the greatest rookie seasons in franchise history, Porzingis is entering the world of sports merchandise.

According to a Porzingis has signed a multiyear footwear and apparel deal with sports merchandise powerhouse adidas.

Porzingis recorded averages of 14.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game during his rookie season. All three of those marks were the highest by a Knicks rookie since Patrick Ewing in 1985-86.

Per Nick DePaula of The Vertical, Porzingis has signed the most lucrative shoe deal by a European player in NBA history.

New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis has signed a multiyear footwear and apparel endorsement deal with adidas, sources told The Vertical.

The deal will pay Porzingis, 21, between $3 million and $6 million annually, depending on incentive bonuses met. It’s the most lucrative shoe deal signed by a European player to date.

That’s quite the achievement for a second-year player.

It’s imperative to note that Nike, Porzingis’ previous sponsor, has the right to match adidas’ contract offer. DePaula reports that it’s unlikely to transpire, but it’s certainly possible that the titans of the industry will have a change of heart.

Porzingis is a rising star in a major market who’s rapidly becoming a household name in both NBA circles and around the world.

From Latvia to the NBA, Porzingis has traveled one of the most unlikely paths to success. He’s representing the Knicks, which isn’t the easiest thing for a star-caliber player to do.

Since Patrick Ewing led the Knicks to 13 consecutive postseason appearances, the Knicks have made the playoffs four times in 15 minutes.

Whether he’s with adidas or Nike, Porzingis will be leading the new generation of Knicks basketball.