Ben Simmons, the standout freshman forward from LSU, is the latest buzzworthy NBA prospect. Barring any unexpected setbacks, it's believed that Simmons will be selected with the first overall pick in the NBA Draft this June. With so much buzz surrounding Simmons' arrival in the pros, a long list of sneaker companies have pitched for his services, and a winner may have emerged.
According to a report from Stack, Simmons will sign an endorsement deal with adidas. This move wouldn't be too surprising, considering Simmons has been spotted wearing almost nothing but Yeezy Boosts and Ultra Boosts since the NCAA season ended. However, after he hired LeBron James and Rich Paul's Klutch Sports for management back in March, all signs pointed to him landing with Nike. All of Paul's clients, sans Ben McLemore, are all outfitted in Nike — and McLemore's adidas deal was signed before he hired Paul.
While this news hasn't been confirmed by Simmons or adidas, the addition would make sense for the brand as they continue to build their NBA roster. Simmons, like current adidas athlete Andrew Wiggins, has drawn comparisons to LeBron James.
Expect an official announcement on Simmons' endorsement future soon.
UPDATE: Pump the brakes on Simmons to adidas for now. According to industry insider Nick DePaula, while a deal is still possible, it's far from completed. In fact, adidas is scheduled to make its official pitch to Simmons next week. More on this story as it continues to develop.
