The History of the LeBron James & Nike Partnership

When LeBron James entered the NBA at the age of 18, he changed everything. His speed and power on the basketball court was unlike anything we have seen before. Nike and James have been partners since the very beginning of LeBron’s illustrious career. Keep reading to get a brief history of the LeBron & Nike partnership.

Hail To The King

LeBron James was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003 straight out of high school. His impact as a teenager was instant – both on the court and off. King James delivered from the very start in the NBA and earned Rookie of the Year honors. The King entered the league when he was just 18 years old. The expectations put on him were huge, and more than any teenager should have to face. King has not only lived up to all the hype, he has exceeded it.

The King never slowed down after his first season in the league, and he has achieved some of the most iconic moments in basketball history. “The Decision,” overcoming a 3-1 game deficit in the 2016 NBA Finals, and bringing a championship to his hometown team, the list goes on and on.

6 feet and 9 inches tall, fast, strong, and skilled. King James deserves the name, King. His god given ability is unmatched. What is overlooked is the work he has obviously put in. LeBron James is one of the smartest players to ever play the game, his basketball IQ is off the charts. James knows what is going to happen on the court before it happens. It is why he is such a brilliant passer and defender.

LeBron has played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and the Los Angeles Lakers in his long career. The King has four championship rings, played in 10 NBA Finals, and won two Olympic gold medals. The career of LeBron James is unparalleled.

A King’s Ransom

When LeBron signed with Nike as a teenager, he was given a seven year deal worth 90 million. After that deal expired, the King and Nike would eventually agree to a rare in the industry, lifetime deal. Nike and LeBron have agreed to a forever marriage that reportedly brings LeBron 30 million a year and the total deal is supposedly worth more than 1 billion. It is believed that LeBron’s signature line, which includes shoes and apparel, is estimated to earn Nike more than $600 million a year.

Memorable LeBron x Nike Sneakers