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words // Nick DePaula:
After being selected with the 9th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, point guard Kemba Walker signed a 4-year shoe deal with Under Armour during the summer before his lockout-shortened rookie season with the Charlotte Hornets was to begin.
The deal expired earlier this month in September, and the two sides have decided to part ways, clearing the way for Kemba to be a sneaker free agent. Sources with the brand had nothing but positive things to say about Walker, who’s leadership, clutch poise and insistence on taking and making shots down the stretch have earned him a starting role in the league and a 4-year, $48 Million contract extension with the Hornets.
As Under Armour recently awarded Stephen Curry with a massive endorsement extension, and also signed NBA rookies Emmanuel Mudiay, Jerian Grant and Delon Wright, the decision was simply made to spend resources elsewhere and move on from Walker once his deal expired.
Earlier this fall, Kemba received a strong pitch from adidas, and was also offered a shoe deal by Jordan Brand. Of course, he plays for Michael Jordan’s heavily sponsored team, and is expected to be partnering soon with the Jumpman.
At Charlotte’s recent Media Day, Walker wore the iconic “Grape” Air Jordan V, a nice match and perhaps a sign of what’s to come for his footwear.
