Kyrie Irving has seen a great deal of misfortune so far this year. The Brooklyn Nets star missed a huge portion of the season after he refused to take the COVID-19 vaccine. When he finally was able to return, his team was humiliated by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.
Things keep getting worse for Kyrie Irving. Sources have told ESPN that the long and profitable relationship between Irving and Nike could soon be coming to an end. The sportswear giant is unlikely to renew Kyrie’s contract after it expires.
The final version of Kyrie’s popular shoe will be released in the fall. Irving’s eight-year relationship with Nike will then come to an end. Uncertainties over Kyrie Irving’s future in the NBA were cited as the main reason Nike does not wish to re-sign him. The company did not confirm or deny the speculation.
“We don’t comment on contracts or rumors or speculation. Kyrie remains a Nike athlete.”
There may still be some Kyrie Irving-branded merchandise in the future. Nike is known to re-release throwback versions of popular sneakers. Kyrie’s shoes fall into that category.
The Nets have yet to commit to a long-term deal with Irving. Between the vaccine drama and a failure to make a difference in the postseason, the team may decide to move on. It sounds like Nike has already made that move themselves.
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