Is Dwight Howard Opting Out of His adidas Deal?

Howard spotted wearing Air Jordans.

by Brandon Richard

It's no secret that Dwight Howard and adidas are moving in different directions. After his departure from Orlando and short stay in Los Angeles, Howard has not been a priority for the brand, as they've shifted the focus to younger, more marketable stars. It also doesn't help that his signature sneaker line is always near the bottom when the best-sellers are listed — in fact, it was at the very bottom in the latest numbers from Forbes. The partnership between the two appears to be at an impasse, and matters only escalated today.

In a video shared by the Houston Rockets, Howard is seen making a one-handed full-court shot, possibly in response to a similar shot hit by LeBron James. But what's interesting is his footwear — he's not wearing his usual stripes, but rather the Air Jordan 1.

1.

According to Nick DePaula, Howard's adidas contract expires after the season and the two sides are expected to part ways. While his next suitor is unknown, expect interest from sneaker brands in China, who have signed numerous endorsement deals with Houston Rockets players since the team drafted Yao Ming in 2002. There, Howard could be a focal point again.

 Howard has worn adidas going back to his days playing AAU ball as a teenager and officially part of the brand since his rookie season in 2004.

2.

Dwight Howard wearing the Air Jordan 1