RJ Hampton signs multi-million shoe deal with Li-Ning ahead of NBL debut

He's yet to make his official appearance with the New Zealand Breakers as an NBL Next Star, but RJ Hampton has just inked a multi-million shoe deal with Li-Ning way ahead of the 2020 NBA draft.

According to Hampton's father, Rod, Hampton received interest from a variety of brands, which included Nike, Adidas, Puma, Under Armour, and Li-Ning.

"They're just a great company," RJ Hampton said, via ESPN. "They've put a lot of work in with me, and they've really been behind me these last couple months, ever since I made my decision [to play in the NBL]."

The actual amount is undisclosed, but the Chinese athletic brand reportedly offered a contract that includes Hampton's signature shoe and apparel, and will have royalties built into product sales, that could ramp up potential earnings for Hampton.

https://pickandroll.com.au/nbl-next-stars-arms-race-hampton-lamelo-ball/

"Everyone [knows] Nike, Adidas or Under Armour, but I want to be the face of something global that's bigger than just the US," Hampton, who is projected as a top 10 pick in the 2020 NBA draft, said. "I think with Li-Ning that I can do that."

The Breakers will play their first game against the Sydney Kings on 18 October, Friday at Qudos Bank Arena.

Full report via ESPN's Nick DePaula: Ex-prep star Hampton inks shoe deal with Li-Ning