Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler and Jordan Brand have mutually agreed to part ways, bringing his multi-year footwear and apparel endorsement deal to a sudden end, 10 months before its original September 30, 2020 expiration date, according to ESPN's Nick DePaula.
This recent change would make Butler, a four-time All-Star and four-time All-Defensive honoree, the highest-profile sneaker free agent in the NBA.
The Heat's leading scorer is expected to begin discussions with other brands soon, hoping to negotiate a new multi-year endorsement deal that could begin as soon as this season, potentially before the All-Star Weekend, a time when most players show off their new models and colorways.
Jimmy Butler was formerly with Adidas upon breaking into the league as a rookie. Three seasons later, he took a 75% pay cut to sign with Jordan Brand, as he made his way to become the NBA's Most Improved Player and later a first-time All-Star by the end of the 2014-15 season.
Jordan has recently made plenty of changes, including transferring Jayson Tatum from Nike to a full-time Jordan athlete after the end of his 2018-19 postseason. The brand continued making waves during the regular season, inking Zion Williamson to a long-term deal and recently securing Rookie of the Year Luka Doncic to one as well.
The brand seems to be aiming for younger, fresher faces in hopes to connect with a younger generation. They've done so by signing Tatum, a third-year player; Williamson, a rookie; and Doncic, a reigning Rookie of the Year with plenty of international appeal that will help sell sneakers and clothing outside of the United States.
Follow Us
Subscribe