Nike just signed Kobe Bryant to a $40 – $45 million, 5-year deal. That works out to about 2/3 of LeBron James’ $90 million, 7-year deal. So is Kobe only worth 66% of LeBron? I guess time will tell, but the article linked earlier does a good job of explaining the discrepancy. I know one thing, every NBA star will be on a mission to prove themselves whenever they’re up against LeBron. That should make for some high drama next year.
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So, I guess it doesn’t matter if you’ve mastered your sport, huh?! And generated millions of dollars to boot! 😉 (ah, Capitalism)
That’s pretty ugly, regardless of how they try to justify it. LeBron has been a big fish in a small pond. Nike better hope and pray he doesn’t choke or get seriously hurt…
Like the stock market, it’s often about future earnings/revenue. Stay tuned…
Correct… this is all based on potential and future earnings. Kobe is at worst one of the top 3 players in the league. Let’s assume the top 5 players in the league are (in no order)
Kobe Bryant
Tracy McGrady
Shaq ONeal
Tim Duncan
Kevin Garnett
I’m willing to bet all of these players combined cannot match the shoe sales of a retired Michael Jordan. There is something missing from all that draws people to them. Some it’s personality. Others it’s where they play, while others it’s the wins and losses.
Whatever it is, it can’t be bought you either have it or you don’t. LeBron already has the hype and expectations can his personality draw buyers? We’ll soon find out.
You’re right Jamal. Even if I was still in my b-ball shoe buying days I wouldn’t be moved to buy any of their shoes based solely on name. But KG and Kobe would be my first two choices. LeBron does seem to have the X factor, so his merch should sell well, at least during his rookie season.