Stephen A. Smith has shared his unwavering confidence in Milwaukee Bucks stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, although he has reservations about the rest of the Bucks’ roster. Lillard recently made headlines by agreeing to a lifetime contract extension with Adidas, according to sources from ESPN.
With Lillard’s previous contract with Adidas having expired last offseason, his representative, Aaron Goodwin from Goodwin Sports Management, has successfully negotiated a new deal. Lillard’s impressive performance has been instrumental in leading the Bucks to the NBA Cup championship in Las Vegas, where he demonstrated his skills by averaging 25.7 points, 7.5 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and a steal per game this season.
Lillard’s lifetime endorsement contract places him in an elite group of NBA players, joining the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, who have similar agreements with major brands. Goodwin, who has a history of negotiating high-profile deals, also played a role in securing initial Nike contracts for James and Durant.
At 34 years old, Lillard’s career earnings from both his playing contracts and endorsement deals are set to surpass $600 million. Recognized as one of the NBA’s Top 75 greatest players and an eight-time All-Star, Lillard has been with Adidas since entering the league in 2012. His long-standing relationship with the brand has enabled him to engage in various community initiatives in Portland, a city that holds a special place in his heart. This year, Adidas further honored Lillard by naming the gymnasium court at its headquarters after him.
Overall, Lillard’s continued success, both on and off the court, highlights his impact as an athlete and community figure, paving the way for future generations of players. His commitment to Portland and his partnership with Adidas reflect his dedication beyond basketball, signaling a bright future for both him and the teams he represents.