(Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated)
With the 2018-2019 football season starting Sept. 4th Nike announced Colin Kaepernick as the face of the 30th anniversary “Just Do It” campaign. Here are three reasons why this collaboration stands out.
Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything. #JustDoIt pic.twitter.com/SRWkMIDdaO
— Colin Kaepernick (@Kaepernick7) September 3, 2018
1. Colin Kaepernick Chose To Stay With Nike
Now of course there was a ton of “interest from other shoe companies,” and instead of going with another brand, Colin Kaepernick decided to stick with Nike. As many may not know, Kaepernick has been with the well-known apparel company since 2011.
2. The “Star” Contract Will Be More Than Shoes
Kaepernick’s new contract with Nike is a “wide endorsement” where the NFL player will pretty much have his own branded sportswear line. This line will not only include sneakers, but shirts, jerseys, and more. Get ready to get decked out in your Colin Kaepernick/#ImWithKap apparel! The former 49ers quarterback signed a legit “star” contract that puts him at a “top-end NFL player” level. This type of contract is worth millions per year, plus royalties.
3. Nike Refused To Believe The Hype
Instead of being apart of the opposing backlash that Kaepernick faced, Nike decided to ignore it and still work with him. Despite being a kicka*s quarterback, Kaepernick is internationally known for being the face of the National Anthem protest seen at the start of football games. “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that opposes black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder,” Kaepernnick revealed to NFL Media during an exclusive interview after a game back in 2016 when he initially started the protest.
The Internet Responds
As with anything that takes place in pop culture, the Internet sure did have a lot to say! Kaepernick being the new face of Nike’s 30th anniversary “Just Do It” campaign overjoyed many.
Me at Footlocker tomorrow pic.twitter.com/ypOooeLyVw
— ment (@mentnelson) September 4, 2018
I’m legit going to buy so much Nike gear it’ll be obscene. I’m going to just be one big swoosh. #ColinKaepernick #Nike
— Saira (@SairaCSU) September 4, 2018
https://twitter.com/IamAims718/status/1036978567182254080
Some folks, on the other hand, were not so happy. In fact, those against posted videos and photos of them destroying thier Nike gear.
When you find out #nike is supporting #ColinKaepernick #BoycottNike