Former UConn star and current Charlotte Bobcat Kemba Walker has inked a multi-year deal with Under Armour. Walker, the ninth overall pick in the NBA draft, led the Huskies to a national championship in the 2010-2011 season.
Walker joins 2010-2011 Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton and Washington Nationals Bryce Harper as the latest high profile rookie signee for Under Armour.
Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
At 0.19 percent of the total basketball shoe market share, in dollars, Under Armour has less of a share than Fila (0.34), Converse (0.78), And 1 (0.98), Reebok (2.45) and Adidas (3.47), according to SportScanINFO.
“Kemba has proven himself to be the ultimate winner, and as we continue to build our presence in the basketball world were thrilled to have him join the Under Armour team,” said Matt Mirchin, Senior Vice President, Sports Marketing, Under Armour. “He’s electrifying on the court, and his dedication to hard work and humility off the court are just as impressive.”
After a celebrated high school career, The Bronx, NY native dominated the college basketball world last year, winning Most Outstanding Player awards for both the 2011 Big East and NCAA Tournaments. Ignited by his scoring and playmaking, Walker’s Huskies punctuated an improbable winning streak by claiming the 2011 NCAA Tournament Championship.
“As a young player paving my own path to the game, teaming up with Under Armour feels like a great fit,” said Walker. “From what I see they are the next up and coming basketball brand. They bring a freshness and a new energy to the game of basketball.”
Walker set a new UCONN single-season scoring record with 965 points, earning First Team All Big East and All-American honors and claiming the Bob Cousy Award as the nation’s top point guard. Walker joins 2010 Heisman Trophy Winner Cam Newton, All-America football player Julio Jones and Bryce Harper, the first pick in the 2010 Major League Baseball Draft, as the newest members to the Under Armour team.
Walker will wear UA footwear for training and on-court and will be featured, along with Brandon Jennings, in upcoming marketing campaigns for Under Armour Basketball.
