The return of Boston Celtics superstar Gordon Hayward has garnered so much attention that various shoe dealers have been trying to sign him up for a deal. While Hayward has already received a lucrative offer from Chinese-based brand Anta, it seems like Nike has matched the “massive offer” as the 28-year-old star was seen wearing Nike shoes during a recent preseason game:

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ESPN's Nick DePaula was the first to report on Hayward signing a deal with Anta:

Boston Celtics All-Star Gordon Hayward has agreed to a 4-year footwear & apparel offer sheet with Anta. The massive shoe deal also includes a signature apparel collection and marketing throughout Asia and the US. Nike will have 10 business days to exercise their “match clause.”

Much like the concept of restricted free agency in the NBA, Nike included a clause in their contract with Hayward. The clause gives them the right to match any shoe deal offers for players under their wing, forcing that player to stay with the company. Hayward wore the 2017 version of the Hyperdunk, a sign that Nike has probably matched Anta's offer.

Just a couple of weeks ago, it was reported that Hayward was inclined on signing with Nike despite offers from Anta and New Balance. But he then made an unexpected move by signing Anta's offer.

Hayward could just have made a smart business move. By signing the lucrative offer from the Chinese company, Hayward may just have forced Nike to increase their own original offer by matching Anta's offer.