Report: adidas Signs Ricky Rubio

words // Brandon Richard

After locking Derrick Rose into a 13-year contract extension and with Dwight Howard due for a new deal this summer, adidas Basketball has reportedly added much-needed international star power by signing Ricky Rubio to an endorsement deal. According to the report from TuBasket, terms of the deal have yet to be disclosed, but Rubio will be the third highest paid player on the roster behind Rose and Howard.

Rubio's name has been making international waves since he was 14-years old, when he became the youngest player to ever play top flight basketball in Spain. He then helped guide the Spanish National Team to Olympic Silver in 2008, was drafted fifth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2009 and finally made his NBA debut this past season. Before suffering an ACL tear in March, Rubio was in strong contention for Rookie of the Year honors and along with Kevin Love, had the Timberwolves seeded in playoff position.

At just 21 years of age, many expect Rubio to make a full recovery and find his way back to the court next season. If he displays some of the skill and excitement that he showed in Minnesota this past season, the rumored deal might prove to be a coup for the 3-Stripes at a time when they're showing growth in the basketball market. Rubio spent his rookie campaign and previous years in Spain wearing Nike.

As of now, there is no confirmation on the Rubio deal, but stick with Sole Collector for updates.