Big news out of the NBA as Nike is reportedly “unlikely to extend” its signature shoe contract with Brooklyn Nets point guard Kyrie Irving following the 2022-23 NBA season.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne reported Nike is planning to release the final edition of its Kyrie edition shoes this year but also noted the future of the partnership is expected to “dramatically” change.
According to ESPN, “uncertainties surrounding his NBA future have left the company unlikely to extend him to a similar signature deal beyond the 2022-23 season.”
Nike released a statement on the speculation:
“We don’t comment on contracts or rumors or speculation. Kyrie remains a Nike athlete.”
Last July, Irving caused a wave of controversy when he described the latest release of his signature shoe as “trash” and said he was no longer involved in the creative process:
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He later issued a statement saying it was “unfair” to place the blame on Nike and work was being done “to make sure we get it right.”
Irving was limited to 29 appearances during the 2021-22 season because of his unvaccinated status. Once the team got to the playoffs, they failed to win a single game as the Boston Celtics swept them out of the postseason.
The seven-time All-Star holds a $36.9 million player option in his contract for next season.
