Sneaker News 
Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks is a name to be paying attention to for the next fifteen years or so, but brace yourself for a splash coming very soon. The Greek Freak is seen as a coveted prize for all the sneaker brands as his athleticism, youth, popularity, and global reach give him the potential to be one of the most impactful pro athletes in the NBA, both present and future. According to Nick DePaula of ESPN, Nike, adidas, and Li-Ning, the three brands in hot pursuit of his services, offered a signature shoe that would likely release during the 2018-2019 NBA season.
adidas’ pitch took place yesterday and we caught a glimpse of the German brand attempting to grease up the Bucks superstar with a van jam-packed with Yeezys, Ultra Boosts, and what appears to be an endless assortment of gear. Li-Ning is also said to be in the running to sign Giannis, although their offer will unquestionably be much more than what Nike or adidas can offer. Nike, who has Giannis under contract through the end of the month, has a unique clause that gives them twenty days to match any offer and therefore retain the star player.
Each brand is expected to make a five-year contract offer to Antetokounmpo as the NBA season nears. The real question is – how high will adidas or Li-Ning have to offer Giannis so that Nike doesn’t match? Russell Westbrook signed the largest contract in the history of Jordan Brand and it’s certain that Giannis’ camp is looking for a similar deal in terms of annual payout. While Giannis has yet to accomplish what Westbrook has on the court, it can be argued that his ceiling, in terms of marketability, is just as high, if not higher than the reigning MVP’s.
