John Kim 
In late February, sources confirmed that Damian Lillard would opt out of his adidas contract at the end of this season and test the waters as a sneaker free agent. His rising super-stardom would undoubtedly prove to be a huge attraction for sneaker brands (adidas included) to offer up a big deal for the Portland phenom, but those rumors were clearly nothing more than hearsay. adidas has squashed any sort of potential bidding war because the brand just confirmed a long-term extension with Lillard, who will continue to play an integral part in their ad campaigns moving forward. Questions now arise regarding the internal structure of the brand’s best hoop athletes; will Rose, continue to be the driver, or will Lillard step into the limelight as a signature-shoe athlete? An official Lillard shoe hasn’t been confirmed yet, but stay tuned to Sneaker News for the latest on this latest on this new development.
Photo: bil
PORTLAND, Ore. (April 14, 2014) – adidas today announced a long-term partnership extension with NBA All-Star point guard Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers. The young star will continue to be an integral part of adidas Basketball’s marketing campaigns, product launches and global initiatives moving forward.
“adidas has been great to me over my first two seasons,” said Lillard. “I’ve had the opportunity to wear a lot of great product, help design special versions of shoes, be a part of TV commercials and travel the world with the brand. I’m excited for what the future holds for me and adidas.”
Lillard’s dedication to basketball brought immediate success in his young NBA career, including being named the unanimous Kia NBA Rookie of the Year. This season, Lillard took another step forward, earning a spot on the Western Conference NBA All-Star team where he also became the first player to complete in all five events at All-Star weekend. Lillard’s improvement has led to team success, as the Trail Blazers have clinched a playoff spot in the tough Western Conference for the first time in three seasons.
“Damian has proven to be not only an amazing basketball player, but a great partner, member of the community and someone who creates excitement for our products,” said Chris Grancio, adidas head of global basketball sports marketing. “His leadership and commitment to success on the court and his ability to interact and relate to fans through social media and the community make him the perfect fit to be one of the cornerstones of the adidas brand.”
After being overlooked by large collegiate programs coming out of high school in Oakland, Calif., Lillard attended Weber State University where he excelled for three seasons. Lillard quickly raised his draft status in 2012 where he was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the sixth overall pick. Lillard is currently averaging 21 points, six assists and four rebounds per game for the Trail Blazers.
Other adidas athletes include Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls, WNBA MVP Candace Parker and FIFA World Player of the Year Lionel Messi FC Barcelona.
