Even though we do not yet know all of the specifics of FAMU’s new six-year relationship with Nike and LeBron James, the current media flurry around the news may act as a deterrent to Deion Sanders.
Since it was designated the Time Magazine/Princeton Review College of the Year in 1997, FAMU received two full days’ worth of exceptional positive media coverage.James carried a fresh pair of custom FAMU sneakers to the Lakers vs. Suns game on Tuesday night, which he wore throughout the contest. Few were aware of his plans at that time.
Most likely believed that the megastar was honoring the HBCU community, as he, Chris Paul, and others frequently do. There was however more to it.He was hinting at a significant, game-changing news that would have an impact on FAMU’s future and marketability, as well as FAMU athletics.On Thursday, Nike and LeBron James surprised the world once more by announcing a new, long-term relationship that would make FAMU the first college whose athletic teams would wear LeBron James-branded clothing.
James’ response to questions regarding the relationship was as follows: “Nike has long supported Florida A&M athletics, and I’m committed to uplifting HBCUs, so I was happy I rocked a pair of the PEs in-game and showcased a glimpse of what’s to come for the men’s and women’s basketball programs.” The agreement will cover shoes made especially for the university.
The Rattlers have a long history of academic and athletic achievement, and as the old adage goes, “if you look good, you play good,” so does your team. The Lakers player has been active over the past month, leading his NBA team on the court and making significant social justice efforts off it.
He helped WNBA activist Renee Montgomery become a part-owner of the Atlanta Dream after Kelly Loeffler, a former GOP senator, was ousted for her anti-BLM rhetoric.Interestingly, Converse, Inc., a member of the NIKE family, is led by G. Scott Uzzell, a graduate of FAMU.James has always prioritized knowledge when it comes to using his position to effect change off the ground. In Akron, his I Promise School has achieved great success.
In support of HBCUs, Nike and LeBron are now getting ready to leave their mark on FAMU. If everything goes according to plan, FAMU could benefit from this alliance in ways that go far beyond the basketball courts, track and field, and other athletic venues.
