Rising NBA Rookies Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham Sign Landmark Shoe Deals with Major Brand
In a bold move that further cements their rising stardom, NBA rookies Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham have signed endorsement deals with one of the world’s most iconic shoe companies—Nike. The deals, announced just days after the 2025 NBA Draft, mark a major milestone for both players as they prepare for their first professional seasons and join a long list of basketball legends who have partnered with the brand.
Sheppard and Dillingham, both former Kentucky Wildcats, captivated the college basketball world during their standout 2024–2025 campaign. Their electric play, chemistry on the court, and individual skill sets made them two of the most talked-about players in college basketball—and now, the hype has officially carried over to the NBA.
Sources close to the negotiations revealed that both contracts are multi-year deals that include performance incentives, signature apparel opportunities, and heavy marketing plans centered around their dynamic personas. While the exact financial details remain undisclosed, industry insiders believe these could be among the most lucrative rookie shoe contracts in recent memory.
For Reed Sheppard, the son of Kentucky basketball legends Jeff Sheppard and Stacey Reed, this deal represents not just a commercial win but a generational full-circle moment. Known for his efficiency, poise, and elite shooting, Sheppard has drawn comparisons to NBA sharpshooters like Klay Thompson and Desmond Bane. His grounded personality and work ethic have made him highly marketable, and Nike reportedly views him as a long-term face of their basketball line.
Rob Dillingham, on the other hand, brings flash and flair to the partnership. The 6’1″ guard is widely regarded as one of the most creative scorers in his class, showcasing dazzling handles, fearless drives, and a scorer’s mentality. His appeal to younger fans and social media presence played a major role in the shoe brand’s decision to invest in him. Dillingham is expected to headline several youth-focused campaigns and could be in line for a signature shoe as early as his second NBA season.
This dual signing mirrors previous partnerships like that of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant—two uniquely different players who each brought distinct styles to the same brand, strengthening the company’s grip on the basketball market. Nike’s strategy seems clear: double down on emerging talent, and lock in fanbases early.
Nike released a statement celebrating the signings:
> “Reed and Rob embody the future of basketball—athletic, competitive, and uniquely individual. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the Nike family and can’t wait to tell their stories through innovation and sport.”
The announcement has sent waves through the sports marketing world, with analysts praising the brand for getting ahead of what could become two of the league’s brightest young stars. With Summer League just around the corner, fans will get their first glimpse of Sheppard and Dillingham lacing up in Nike gear—and perhaps get a preview of signature styles to come.
One thing is clear: the next chapter for these two young phenoms is already off to a soaring start, both on and off the court.
