Which equipment manufacturers are best represented in the “sneaker” department in the NBA? The study of Basketball Insiders made from data from Kix Statsbrings no surprise since we simply have the confirmation that Nike continues its overwhelming dominance in this market.
In the 2022/23 season, Nike represented more than 67% of the shoes worn by NBA players. That’s more than two out of three players! As a reminder, Nike has for main signatures LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Paul George, and recently Ja Morant. All have a pair to their name.
In second place we find Adidas, with about 11% of players, six times less than Nike. While we could have expected more, the share of Jordan Brand represents only 7.6% this season. As the “Jumpman” brand is a subsidiary of Nike, this means that nearly 75% of players opt for the bosom of the Oregon brand. We also note that this share is higher among pivots, with 82% market share.
The competition is getting tougher
The study also reveals that the domination, certainly monumental of the comma brand, tends to decrease with the arrival of new players. The phenomenon should continue, and we note the progression of a brand like Puma, which represents 3% of shoes worn in the NBA this season, with the signing of young talents.
Behind Puma, the contenders to see their share of the cake grow are numerous, between Under Armor (2.2%), New Balance (1.99%), Anta (1.97%), Li-Ning (1.67%), Converse (1.57%) and 361° (0.56%). Maybe next year, we’ll see the appearance of Ethics Brand, created by Langston Galloway, if Kyrie Irving decides to put it forward.
