Eric Sorenson
Tuesday morning Arizona State Vice President of University Athletics Ray Anderson announced the school has agreed to an eight-year, nearly $34 million exclusive partnership with adidas to be the official footwear, apparel and accessory brand moving forward. The Sun Devils have been wearing Nike gear since 2005.
Anderson didn’t shy away from admitting the new deal is extremely beneficial financially for ASU as it continues to gain momentum towards Sun Devil Stadium improvements and other athletic renovations around campus.
“adidas has shown a sincere commitment and level of investment in Sun Devil Athletics that is commensurate with the hard work and championship-caliber performances that are displayed by our student-athletes, coaches, and sports programs. We not only made a decision that was advantageous for Sun Devil Athletics financially, but a partnership decision that will undoubtedly advance our brand based on the innovation of the company and commitments that adidas has outlined,” said Anderson.
Sun Devil Athletics announces partnership with @adidasUS. #teamadidasASU pic.twitter.com/aSifZGQUN2
— Sun Devil Athletics (@TheSunDevils) December 16, 2014
The partnership gives both parties the ability to improve ASU’s brand while appeasing the purists who are in favor of keeping Sparky and the Pitchfork as mainstays on jerseys, helmets and athletic supplies. Anderson said he doesn’t anticipate drastic changes in the uniform combinations.
The Portland, Oregon-based company will also offer an internship program to up to 12 Sun Devil students studying law, business, journalism and other undergraduate programs.
UCLA is the only other Pac-12 school to have a deal with adidas. Other prominent schools who wear the brand include Michigan, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Texas A&M, Indiana, Kansas and Louisville.
