Star point guard to remain a focal point of adidas Basketball brand
adidas today
announced a long-term partnership extension with NBA All-Star point guard Damian
Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers. The young star will continue to be an
integral part of adidas Basketball’s marketing campaigns, product launches and
global initiatives moving forward.
“adidas has been
great to me over my first two seasons,” said Lillard. “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’s
dedication to basketball brought immediate success in his young NBA career,
including being named the unanimous Kia NBA Rookie of the Year. This season,
Lillard took another step forward, earning a spot on the Western Conference NBA
All-Star team where he also became the first player to complete in all five
events at All-Star weekend. Lillard’s improvement has led to team success, as
the Trail Blazers have clinched a playoff spot in the tough Western Conference
for the first time in three seasons.
“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,” said Chris
Grancio, adidas head of global basketball sports marketing. “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.”
After being
overlooked by large collegiate programs coming out of high school in Oakland,
Calif., Lillard attended Weber State University where he excelled for three
seasons. Lillard quickly raised his draft status in 2012 where he was selected
by the Portland Trail Blazers with the sixth overall pick. Lillard is currently
averaging 21 points, six assists and four rebounds per game for the Trail
Blazers.
Other adidas
athletes include Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls, WNBA MVP Candace Parker and
FIFA World Player of the Year Lionel Messi FC Barcelona.