Nike is entering the world of esports with their recent partnership with Jian Zihao, a top League of Legends player. Zihao will partner with Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, according to Gabe Gurwin of IGN.
James is doing it all, from being a basketball player, movie star and producer. Now, he's dipping his toes into the world of esports by teaming up with Zihao on new shirt designs. LeBron can really do everything — except close out games with clutch free throws.
Zihao is one of the top League of Legends players in the world. Uzi, his in-game name, is a 21 year old Chinese League of Legends professional. He plays for a team called RNG (Royal Never Give Up), one of the most dominant Attack Damage Carry in the world. RNG placed first in the 2018 Mid Season Invitational (Tournament) in May and won $527,650 as the prize. They were recently knocked out of the World Championship. ($2,250,000 USD) prize pool.
Non-traditional athletes are becoming more influential, and this deal between Zihao and Nike is evidence. The fact that Zihao is teaming up with the most famous athlete in the world, LeBron James, is another telling sign that esports are slowly working their way into the mainstream.
Whether it's CS: GO, League of Legends or Overwatch, the influence of esports is growing. The industry is still in its infancy and a long way from challenging professional sports leagues like the NBA or the NFL, but the growing popularity is undeniable.
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