Toronto Raptors All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard has agreed to a multi-year shoe deal with New Balance. Leonard apparently declined an extension from Jordan Brand and is set to become New Balance's pioneer star endorser of basketball shoes.
Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports has the full report on the deal:
Leonard, 27, will serve as the face of New Balance basketball, with the company looking to re-establish itself in the basketball market.
The two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year turned down an extension with Jordan Brand earlier this year, allowing him to become a sneaker free agent.
It's a business career move for a player who doesn't necessarily bask himself in the limelight. New Balance hasn't really established itself in the basketball industry, but it has been heavily pursuing some top NBA names to become ambassadors for the company.
Recall how New Balance and Gordon Hayward almost came to terms on a deal before the Boston Celtics small forward decided to sign with Anta instead. Rumors also have it that New Balance courted Philadelphia 76ers flamboyant superstar Joel Embiid, but the big man chose Under Armour.
This summer, Puma also made waves when they signed top-tier rookies such as Deandre Ayton, Marvin Bagley III, Kevin Knox, Zhaire Smith, and Michael Porter Jr.. It'll be interesting to see how these incoming basketball shoemakers fare with a stacked competition that already boasts famous brands like Nike and Adidas.
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