2. Nike Connection
Even before James was drafted in 2003, he was the recipient of a $90 million deal from Nike. Since that time, he’s had his own line of sneakers, which continues to enjoy huge sales. Even though he’s currently in the latter portion of his career, he signed a lifetime deal with the company that was estimated to be the largest single-athlete guarantee in Nike’s history.
Jordan helped put Nike on the map, signing a $2.5 million deal in 1984. That was the beginning of a relationship which eventually led to his own brand within the company, selling countless other items besides sneakers. However, it was those sneakers that will always be associated with any mention of the company.
Next: Coming Back from Controversy