Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard signed a lucrative contract extension with Adidas, becoming one of the highest-earning endorsers in the league today.
ESPN reported that Lillard inked a deal that could extend up to 10 years, and could be worth around $100 million, which is said to be the fourth largest shoe endorsement deal in the league at this point.
Miami Heat's LeBron James and Oklahoma City Thunder's Kevin Durant, who are both with Nike, are the highest-earning active players at this point, followed by Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose.
Lillard's deal is the highest endorsement deal since Rose inked a 13-year-deal worth $185 million in 2012. Unfortunately for Adidas, Rose sustained a torn ACL in his left knee in that same year.
Lillard, who is averaging 20.7 points to go along with 5.6 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game this season, turned into one of the youngest superstars in the NBA.
After becoming the 2013 Rookie of the Year, Lillard made his first All-Star appearance this season, while also leading the Trail Blazers to playoffs.
"Adidas has been great to me over my first two seasons," Lillard said. "I've had the opportunity to wear a lot of great product, help design special versions of shoes, be a part of TV commercials and travel the world with the brand. I'm excited for what the future holds for me and adidas."
Lillard, who first signed a deal with Adidas after he was drafted sixth overall in 2012, did not have a signature shoe in his first two years in the league, but Adidas released several Trail Blazers-themed sneakers, including that black-and-red sneaker he sported during the 2014 All-Star weekend.
"Damian has proven to be not only an amazing basketball player, but a great partner, member of the community and someone who creates excitement for our products," Adidas said in a statement. "His leadership and commitment to success on the court and his ability to interact and relate to fans through social media and the community make him the perfect fit to be one of the cornerstones of the Adidas brand."
