A CBS Sports poll of over 110 Division I basketball coaches finds that Under Armour has surpassed Adidas as far as shoe companies influencing NCAA basketball.
The coaches were anonymously asked to share their opinion on which brand has a better hold in the current NCAA landscape. The poll included coaches at universities sponsored by Nike, Adidas and Under Armour.
The coaches roundly agreed that Nike dominated as the top influencer in NCAA basketball among footwear companies. Asked specifically to choose between Adidas and Under Armour for the second spot, the poll found 76 percent believing Under Armour now ranks second.
One coach said, “To me, Nike is running away with the No. 1 spot. Not even close. The No. 2 spot, I think, is Under Armour – and they’re leaving Adidas behind. Adidas consistently puts out bad-looking gear and uniforms. The best thing they have going for them is the Yeezy shoe line, but I hear that it’s still almost impossible for some of the big-name Adidas sponsored schools to get the shoes. I’d be pissed if we were sponsored by Adidas.”
A second stated, “Not even close: Under Armour! They are actually nipping on the heels of Nike. When you look at which way prospects are trending AAU-wise, the popularity of Steph Curry and the number of universities that are switching to Under Armour, it’s hard to say anyone else is second.”
A third said, “Under Armour. They have stolen most of Adidas’ schools and Adidas isn’t putting up a fight.”
Among the coaches who voted for Adidas, responses include: “Under Armour has made great strides in the past five years, however I think Adidas (especially with signing the NBA rookies they have) will remain number two for a while. Outside of Curry’s influence (which is great), UA just doesn’t have the appeal that the other two do with kids.”
Another said, “Adidas. Proof is in the signing of six of the top 10 picks in the NBA Draft this year. Brand is still a lot stronger/more respected in the states even though Under Armour has covered ground.”
The full article is here.
Photo courtesy Under Armour
