Nike vs 361°: Are Nikola Jokic’s Latest Chinese Sneakers Already Costlier Than His Previous Shoes With the American Brand?

As is usual with the footwear giant, Nike, Nikola Jokic signed with the brand on his arrival at the NBA. A loyal endorser of the same for his entire career, everybody believed him to stay with Nike for as long as he was with the league. But in a surprising turn of events, the “Joker” had moved from the American brand.

Following Kyrie Irving‘s model (ANTA), Jokic signed a deal with the Chinese brand, 361°. Last week was chaos as the news of this was leaked.

Nikola Jokić provides official confirmation about his shoe deal

Tonight’s victory saw Jokic officially confirming his role as the Global Brand Ambassador and the partnership. With the confirmation, the 361° also released the BIG 3 series. It is listed at $299.99 on the brand’s website. And that’s the offer price! Already costlier than the shoes worn during his tenure with Nike, there is no doubt that even these will be sold out.

Usually seen in Nike Air Zoom G.T. Jump, which cost $180 during its release in December 2021, is way cheaper than his latest signature shoes. Another model that was often seen on the Joker’s feet was the Nike Zoom Rize 2. It is listed at $189.99. Clearly, Nikola Jokić’s latest shoes are pricier than the ones he wore earlier.

He wore the 361° Nikola Jokić Big3 III Future High to the matchup against the Toronto Raptors.

“The Deal Is Done”: Jokic is thoroughly impressed with 361°

The Chinese brand founded in 2003 already has notable players like Aaron Gordon and Spencer Dinwiddie as part of their family. And Nikola had already talked about AG’s influence in his decision-making. But what really made all the difference was his own experience with the brand.

Read More: Does Nikola Jokic Mega Deal Expose a Chinese Threat to Nike, Jordan and Other Sneaker Brands?

As Nick De Paula reports in the Boardroom Sports, “We’ve already been putting the time and work together to bring my first signature shoe to life. It’s been a fun journey… They are really trying to make the shoes as comfortable as possible,” Jokic assured. “They are asking me after every practice, after every game. I really like the communication that we have right now.”

Nikola’s near free agency this summer coincided with 361°’s efforts to sign him on a major deal. Already trying his hand at marketing by starring in a series of commercials for Hotels.com, it was clear that the “Joker” was looking for a change.

Anyway, everybody on the deal is happy. Jokic now has a signature sneaker line in his name, with much more to come. The sneaker brand is happy with how its market is growing. So, it is a win-win for all parties included!

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