“Sold himself to the Chinese like the rest of the NBA” – Fans react to Austin Reaves’ MILLION DOLLAR signature shoe deal
Austin Reaves secures million dollar shoe contract, NBA fans react with praise and criticism
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Austin Reaves (image via Justin Ford/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is set to start on a summer of generational wealth as he secures a massive raise in restricted free agency. In addition to his upcoming salary increase, Reaves has recently signed a lucrative shoe contract with the Chinese company Rigorer, reportedly worth over $1 million annually. Shams Charania of The Athletic first reported the news.
Reaves, who became the first NBA player to sign a brand deal with Rigorer earlier this year, said “If you would’ve told me I would have a signature shoe at 18, I’d have looked at you and called you a liar.” This groundbreaking partnership will see the release of Reaves’ signature shoe during the upcoming summer, with its debut on NBA floors scheduled for the 2023-24 season.
However, despite this remarkable achievement, the future of Reaves’ Lakers-inspired colorway remains uncertain. As a restricted free agent, Reaves is expected to attract significant attention from other teams in the open market.
While the Lakers are limited by salary cap rules to offering Reaves a four-year, $52 million contract, rival teams face no such constraints. However, the Lakers possess the right to match any offer that Reaves may sign, thereby ensuring his potential stay with the team.
NBA fans react to Austin Reaves’ success
News of Austin Reaves’ million-dollar signature shoe deal with Rigorer has got mixed reactions among NBA fans. While some celebrate Reaves’ endorsement and view it as a well-deserved achievement, others criticize the trend of NBA players aligning themselves with Chinese brands.
One fan wrote, “sold himself to the Chinese like rest of the NBA.” argued that the involvement of Chinese brands in the NBA, including numerous sponsorship deals and the popularity of Chinese shoe manufacturers.
Despite these reactions, it is undeniable that Austin Reaves’ shoe contract represents a significant milestone in his career and demonstrates his global appeal. The endorsement deal with Rigorer not only provides Reaves with substantial financial benefits but also opens doors for future collaborations and opportunities both on and off the court.
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