Sources say that we could know the fate of Ben Simmons' sneaker deal by as early as the end of next week.
The LSU alumni stands to make over $100 million from his endorsement, and sources tell The Vertical that Nike and adidas will make formal pitches to lock down the projected top pick this week. Klutch Sports Group, the agency founded by LeBron James' agent and long-time friend Rich Paul which also represents Simmons, will hold a meeting with adidas tomorrow in Los Angeles. After that, Simmons and Klutch Sports are expected to speak with Nike this weekend.
With the NBA draft lottery fast approaching on May 17, The Vertical's Nick DePaula says that this is a crucial time for Simmons and his agency to come to terms on a deal. Simmons is expected to be chosen as one of the draft's top two picks, and if those selections end up going to teams with small markets, it could cause the rising star to miss out on a ton of shoe endorsement money. By inking the deal before the lottery takes place, he'll strike while the iron is hot.
Although Simmons recently dropped hints at aligning with the Three Stripes, DePaula adds that Klutch Sports' close ties to Nike could have an impact on the deal. Furthermore, it's unlikely that either brand will offer Simmons a signature shoe right out of the gate, and he would instead start with player exclusives.
Things are about to get really interesting for the 19-year-old Melbourne native.
