Donovan Mitchell Needs Adidas to Make Team USA
The month of January is often known for politicking, and we are not talking about this year's Iowa Caucus. Instead, it is when players, teams, and brands begin campaigning for NBA All-Star Game votes.
However, the upcoming battle for roster spots on the United States Men's National Basketball Team for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris will make both of the aforementioned contests look like student council elections.
On Thursday, Donovan Mitchell made his case for a spot on Team USA by leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 111-102 win over the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Paris Game. Mitchell scored 45 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in his fifth signature sneaker with adidas - more specifically, in a 'Louisville Cardinals' player-exclusive colorway.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell in the NBA Paris Game.
Alexis Reau/Presse Sports via USA TODAY Sports
It is never easy to earn one of the select few Team USA roster spots, especially in a year when it is the last opportunity for so many NBA legends. LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard, and first-timers like Stephen Curry and James Harden have all openly expressed interest in the Summer Games. Not to mention the younger generation led by Trae Young, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Halliburton, and Ja Morant.
Mitchell will need the full force of the adidas marketing machine to crack the roster dominated by Nike athletes. Roughly two-thirds of the NBA is represented by Nike or Jordan Brand, and the Swoosh is the official apparel sponsor of Team USA. Make no mistake: every brand wants the opportunity to show off on the world's biggest stage. Luckily for Mitchell, adidas has already begun highlighting his popularity in Paris with events documented in its social media posts.
Lots of favors will be called in, arms twisted, and negotiations in smoke-filled rooms will take place over the next few months before the roster is finalized in June. Mitchell's resume and global popularity speak for themselves, but he will need a marketing blitz by adidas to put him over the top in this crowded field. Follow FanNationKicks.com for all your sneaker news from the sports world.
