John Kim 
A few years down the line, the 2015 NBA Draft could be remembered as one of the best draft classes in the post-Jordan era. In a list that features two outstanding big-men in Jahlil Okafor and Karl-Anthony Towns, both of whom will undoubtedly play major roles in changing the future outlooks of whatever team selects them, the name of D’Angelo Russell might be the most recognizable when it’s all said and done. The combo-guard out of Ohio State has the flash and flair that brands will find easy to market, and he fits the mold of the “signature athlete” – a shooting guard that has nightly highlight-reel potential. His natural charisma is also key to becoming a household name, and you’ll be sure to find plenty of D’Angelo soundbytes throughout his rookie year – especially if he lands at a major market like Los Angeles or New York.
Take for example this clip of Blake Griffin throwing down some insane dunks during a Team USA practice in 2012. Despite Griffin’s high-flying efforts, what you’ll remember more is Russell’s “He aint even stretch tho” that went semi-viral and his styled eyebrows. The camera can’t help but point its lens at the youngster, and his naturally exuberant reaction to dunks and plays should have him as a fixture on ESPN.
So which brand is it? adidas is always a player in the signature shoe sector mostly because they’re willing to spend the most. adidas’ young crop of athletes that includes Andrew Wiggins, John Wall, and Damian Lillard has a ton of talent, but almost zero personality. Penny Hardaway is proof that success as a signature athlete has as much to do with likability as it does with on-court play.
Jordan Brand is also a potential suitor given the brand’s youth movement. They’ve signed a number of young athletes, but it’s still Westbrook/CP3/Blake/Melo territory when it comes to signature shoes. History says that playing in the shadow of MJ won’t get you the stardom you deserve, but it’s clear that Russell has no problem rocking Jordans for the rest of his career. Under Armour is another candidate simply due to their exposure from Steph Curry and the KD bidding war.
With all the said, D’Angelo Russell should be the next Nike signature athlete. He hails from Monteverde Academy and Ohio State, both Nike schools, and the dude is clearly a sneakerhead – his Instagram feed is littered with Foams, Jordans, Nike Basketball, Air Force 1s, and more.
