Adidas Signs Kaleena Smith as First NIL High School Basketball Player
Adidas continues to make waves in the world of sports sponsorship by signing Kaleena Smith as the brand’s first high school girl’s basketball partner under a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal. At just 16 years old, Smith, a sophomore from Ontario, California, is already a highly sought-after recruit with nearly 20 college offers from top programs like USC, Louisville, UConn, UCLA, LSU, and South Carolina.
This groundbreaking partnership comes as Candace Parker, a WNBA legend and the new president of Adidas women’s basketball, looks to build a strong presence in the women’s sports market. Parker, a three-time WNBA champion and seven-time All-Star, is excited to work with Smith and help evolve Adidas’ women’s basketball business.
"I’m blessed to be part of something Candace is creating, and to get to do that with a brand like Adidas who is taking a different approach to play a role to help grow the game for players like me," Smith said.
Standing at 5-foot-6, the talented point guard was named the MaxPreps National Freshman of the Year after averaging an impressive 34.9 points, 6.5 assists, and 4.2 steals per game. Smith is set to represent Adidas on the court during her high school games at Ontario Christian High School and with her AAU team, making her one of the brand’s youngest athletes.
Adidas is making significant moves in the NIL space, with recent signings that include Miami quarterback Cam Ward, six Texas Tech athletes as part of Patrick Mahomes’ initiative, and 15 female student-athletes in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Title IX. This commitment to supporting athletes at all levels underscores Adidas’ dedication to championing women’s sports and providing opportunities for up-and-coming talent like Kaleena Smith.
Stay tuned to Extreme Investor Network for more exclusive insights and updates on innovative partnerships in the world of sports sponsorship.