The Detroit Pistons rookie class dazzled fans in its regular season opener against the Orlando Magic. Jalen Duren had a 14 points, 10 rebound night, helping lead his team to a much needed victory at home. Jaden Ivey impressed the crowd with his electrifying energy and elite first step. The Purdue product finished with 19 points, 4 assists, and a pleasantly surprising 3 steals.
These two rookie’s will look to capitalize off that success in their debut on and off the court. Reports surfaced that both Ivey and Duren inked deals with the Nike brand. Signing both Ivey and Duren is a testament to the success the Pistons have had in recent drafts since Troy Weaver became general manager three years ago..
They were just two of 14 rookies that signed to the brand. Other notable players are Chet Holmgren, Shaedon Sharpe, and Tari Eason. Last year Nike signed 10 players, with Pistons number one pick Cade Cunningham and Rookie of the Year winner Scottie Barnes headlining that list.
Jalen Duren deal
The details of Jalen Duren endorsement deal haven’t been made public. However this tweet from Nick DePaula for ESPN has been circulating on social media platforms.
OFFICIAL: Pistons rookie Jalen Duren has signed with Nike. 📄✍️ pic.twitter.com/dVTmDUsHis
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) October 21, 2022
Duren’s debut was one of the best in recent history for the franchise. He became the youngest player in franchise history (he is still just 18!) to record a double double. He showed the fans of Detroit posterizing dunks, emphatic blocks, and a natural knack to secure rebounds. The future is bright in Detroit and Jalen Duren is a big part of it. He’s still learning, and will only get better with experience. It’s obvious why Nike chose him to endorse their brand.
Jaden Ivey’s deal
Jaden Ivey has the potential to be a budding superstar in this league for years to come. It seems he approaches business with the same tenacity he displays on the hardwood. This could be why his deal was reported different than the other rookie prospects.
As reported here by Nick DePaula:
OFFICIAL: Pistons rookie Jaden Ivey has signed a footwear & apparel endorsement deal with Nike. 📄✍️ pic.twitter.com/fWPCSznH8I
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) October 21, 2022
He’s the only rookie reported to have both footwear and apparel linked to his deal. Many project Ivey to be in the year-long race for Rookie of the Year and one of the best in his class. This deal all but confirms Nike shares the same views on the first year guard.
Could his own signature line be released in the future? I hope so, Ivey has his own style.
Adding his flavor to the mix will prove to be another lucrative business move for the iconic brand. The Nike brand is home to basketball legends like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and many others.
Ivey and Duren will look to have the same success with Nike, raising the bar for the next generation of fans.