Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James continues to control the shoe market unlike any other athlete in the sports world today. While not yet comparable to Michael Jordan in his heyday, it’s soon going to be hitting that point soon.
With a lifetime shoe deal that includes north of $1 billion from Nike, it’s clear that James’ on-court salary pales in comparison to what he’s earning in the endorsement industry.
Just check out the new LeBron 15 “Bright Crimson” shoes set to be released next month. They’re slated to go for $185 a pair on the open market. They’re also pretty darn awesome.
Nike LeBron 15 “Bright Crimson” releases Thursday, May 3 for $185 pic.twitter.com/6p6wE8FX4M
— B/R Kicks (@brkicks) April 19, 2018
It’s not a coincidence that the shoes are slated to be released during the NBA Playoffs. Why not cash in on the height of James’ popularity?
Cleveland is currently tied 1-1 in its first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers after James went ham in Game 2 Wednesday night. For reasons outside of basketball, Nike is sure hoping Cleveland advances.