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Ben Simmons, LSU freshman phenom and presumptive number one overall pick in the upcoming 2016 NBA Draft, just confirmed that he has signed with Nike.
First reported by The Vertical, and later confirmed by Simmons himself in video uploaded by Uninterrupted, Nike reportedly gave the youthful sensation more money than they typically would an incoming NBA rookie. This, by in large, is due to their battle with adidas to sign Simmons. To gain an edge, Nike seemingly had to up their financial incentive.
Given this deal, and its alleged larger than normal dollar amount, many will assume that Simmons will be awarded a signature shoe. Nothing of the sort is confirmed.
Simmons averaged 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 2 steals per game in his one and done season at LSU. The 2016 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 23. The Philadelphia 76ers have the first pick.
