Why Did Kyrie Irving Leave Nike?

By Jocelyn Alano May 22, 2024 07:40

Nike officially terminated its partnership with Brooklyn Nets point guard, Kyrie Irving, following a series of events that led to the suspension of their agreement.

The decision to sever ties with Irving came after he posted a link to an antisemitic film on social media, which led to the suspension of the release of his upcoming Kyrie 8 signature shoe.

The contract, which was set to expire in October 2023, was abruptly suspended 11 months before its expiration due to the controversial content shared by Irving.

Antisemitic Controversy

The chain of events leading to the termination of the partnership began when Kyrie Irving posted a link to an antisemitic film on social media.

Nike condemned this act, stating that there is no place for hate speech, and the company cannot condone any form of antisemitism.

The company's founder, Phil Knight, expressed that Irving crossed the line with his statements, leading to the end of their relationship.

Suspension and Apology

As a consequence of his actions, Brooklyn Nets suspended Irving without pay for at least five games. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver sought an apology from Irving, and when one didn't come, he stated that the athlete was "currently unfit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets."

Irving later issued an apology on his Instagram page, expressing deep regret for causing pain and apologizing to the Jewish families and communities affected by his post.

Mutual Decision to Part Ways

The decision to part ways with Nike was described as mutual by Irving's agent, Shetellia Riley Irving.

She stated, "We have mutually decided to part ways and we just wish Nike all the best." This decision was finalized after Nike officially confirmed that Kyrie Irving is no longer a Nike athlete.

The clarity of the contract's termination means Irving is now a sneaker free agent and could sign a new endorsement deal with the brand partner of his choosing.

Impact on Nike and Irving

Kyrie Irving had been associated with Nike since 2011 and became the 20th NBA player in league history to receive his own signature sneaker with the company in 2014.

His annual signature Kyrie shoe line led to one of the industry's best-selling total signature footwear businesses, becoming Nike's second-most lucrative current player franchise in recent years, only behind LeBron James' signature series.

On the other hand, analysts have pointed out that Nike earns far more from ties to other notable stars, especially the basketball great Michael Jordan, with the Jordan brand accounting for a significant portion of Nike's total revenue.

Ultimately, the termination of the partnership between Kyrie Irving and Nike was a result of the controversy surrounding his social media post containing antisemitic content. This decision has now made Irving a sneaker free agent, leaving him with the opportunity to explore new endorsement deals with other brands in the future

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