University of Michigan announces it has agreed “in principle” to switch from Adidas after eight years with the struggling brand.
BY JACOB PALMER | DIGITAL NEWS EDITOR
University of Michigan announced Monday it has agreed “in principle” to switch from Adidas after eight years with the struggling brand.
“This decision, this partnership is about more than Michigan athletics; at the core, it is about our University community and it is about two great names reuniting for an opportunity that speaks to more than uniforms and apparel,” interim athletic Jim Hackett said in a written statement. “Nike is a recognized leader in its field when it comes to product innovation and we look forward to future collaboration.”
Nike will supply all 31 of Michigan’s athletics programs with uniforms, footwear, apparel and equipment, an athletic department news release says. The school and Nike “also will collaborate throughout the agreement on innovation initiatives in sports technology, design and best practices.”
The agreement includes use of the Jordan Brand “Jumpman” apparel and footwear for men’s and women’s basketball.
(SOURCE: OregonLive.com)
Nike vice president and general manager for North America Joaquin Hidalgo said in a statement: “Nike is especially proud to partner with the Wolverines and have the opportunity once again to work with Michigan student-athletes, coaches, and staff. We eagerly look forward to bringing out the best in each other.”
The move marks a rough year and a half for Adidas, which has lost several iconic programs like Notre Dame (to Under Armour) and Tennessee to Nike.
Financial terms of the deal will be disclosed next week, according to a news release.
Michigan has the most wins in the history of college football and is one of a handful of top-tier programs with an enormous alumni base.
“We have enjoyed an eight-year relationship with the Wolverines and look forward to providing their student-athletes with the best in Adidas footwear, apparel and accessories for this upcoming school year,” said Adidas spokesman Michael Ehrlich, in an email.
(SOURCE: Portland Business Journal)
Michigan fans celebrated the move on Twitter after the news broke.
