The 2020 NBA Draft is fast approaching and as scouts and NBA front offices continue to do their research on the top prospects and which player could possibly be a game changer for their franchise.
National Basketball League (Australia) analyst Corey Williams reported earlier this week that a source close to him confirmed that LaMelo Ball has been offered a staggering sneaker endorsement deal worth $100 million.
On top of that deal is an inclusion of a private jet.
The Shadow League also have sources that have told them the same thing, stating “word on the street and around the basketball world is that there is a major bidding war ensuing between Nike, Reebok, Puma, Adidas, Converse, Jordan Brand and the Chinese sneaker company Anta” to get Ball under contract.
“According to Shadow League source, “the sneaker companies believe he’s a transcending talent on and off the court, he checks all the boxes and his following is like a rockstar following…they believe his desire to be one of the best players in the world — despite his celebrity — has been proven.”
“Zion WIlliamson set the benchmark when he signed a 7-year, $75 million deal with Jordan Brand,” added the source. “The sneaker companies believe Melo is that kind of mega brand. He’s a walking Billboard.”
The shoe company bidding war for Melo Ball is looking like it could be as viciously and meticulously strategic as when an 18-year-old LBJ was the subject of one between Nike, Reebok and Adidas 16 years ago. They all wanted a piece of the “greatest player the league has seen since Michael Jordan.”
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Over 13 games with the Illawarra Hawks of the NBL, Ball is averaging 17 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7 assists, and 1.6 steals per game on 37% shooting.
