Since being drafted first overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2021, Cade Cunningham has emerged as one of the NBA's elite players - something the world got to witness during his first postseason appearance last season.
Now, Cunningham is taking another major step in his career. In an exclusive interview with Boardroom, conducted by fellow NBA superstar Kevin Durant, he announced a new six-year endorsement deal with Nike, which includes his own signature sneaker expected to release during the 2026-27 season.
“I just got the text, matter of fact, saying that you're signing back with Nike?” Durant asked.
Cunningham replied: “This is true.”
“And you're gonna get your own signature shoe. That's true?” Durant followed up.
“That’s true, bro!” Cunningham confirmed. “You already know, bro!”
Video of the interaction is below.
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Cunningham now becomes the first player since Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant to receive his own signature sneaker with Nike. He joins Morant, Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Devin Booker, and LeBron James as the only active players with a signature Nike shoe.
NBA fans had some excited reactions to the monumental news for the 24-year-old guard.
“KD showing love to Cade is huge. That's real respect,” a fan said.
Someone else added: “All the certified legend vets showing love to Cade and praising him they know he's up next. That's my PG man.”
Another person wrote: “This makes me so happy.”
“Cade time is now. SUPERSTAR!” one more fan commented.
Through 11 games this season, Cunningham is averaging 27.5 points, 9.9 assists, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game.
He's steadily improved each year he's been in the NBA, averaging at least 17 points in every season with the Pistons. He played only 12 games in 2022 due to a season-ending injury, but appeared in 62 games in 2023 and 70 games last season.
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