While the initial reporting indicated on the subject that Zion Williamson’s rookie shoe contract with the Jordan Brand wasn’t as much as LeBron James’ first deal with Nike, it appears that assertion is only partially true. While LeBron signed for more total money over a greater number of years, Williamson’s annual salary with Jordan is more than LeBron’s rookie number.
Just within the hour, ESPN’s team of Adrian Wojnarowski and Nick DePaula reported that Williamson actually had several offers that eclipsed the $100 million mark, offers that LeBron similarly turned down when he came out of high school. But they also report that the deal, which is only five years and not the previously reported seven years, is actually worth more annually than any other rookie shoe contract in history, surpassing LeBron’s first deal.
LeBron’s first shoe deal with Nike was reportedly worth $90 million and was inked for more than just five years. However, Williamson eclipsing the annual number that LeBron previously had is fitting. Williamson has had the most hype for a No. 1 pick since LeBron and his high-flying style makes him highly marketable.
