Jimmy Butler Parts Ways With Jordan Brand, Becomes Sneaker Free Agent
10 months ahead of the multiyear contract’s expiration.
Jimmy Butler and Jordan Brand have officially parted ways, according to ESPN. The decision to end the multiyear contract between the Miami Heat forward and the brand was reportedly mutual and brings the relationship to a close 10 months prior to its contract expiration date of September 2020.
During his contract with Jordan Brand, Butler was seen sporting the latest Air Jordan models on and off the court. Additionally, Jordan Brand created a few different exclusive colorways for Butler, along with a special PE edition of the Air Jordan Retro 10 and a limited edition Air Jordan 29 Low. Jordan Brand also included the athlete in various global campaigns and released a limited edition apparel collection featuring his “Jimmy Buckets” logo.
When Butler first started out in the NBA as a Chicago Bulls rookie, he signed a footwear deal with adidas. A few seasons later he then joined Jordan Brand, reportedly taking a 75% pay cut to do so. Now the four-time All-Star will likely be courted by other brands eager to sign multiyear footwear endorsements. ESPN notes that a new deal would likely begin this season, perhaps even prior to All-Star Weekend in February 2020. Potential suitors include Puma, New Balance and Li-Ning and Dwyane Wade’s Way of Wade brand, companies who have all tried to up their presence in the NBA over the past few years.
Elsewhere in NBA news, former NBA commissioner David Stern has passed away.
