Nike and The Bucks

[Hoosier Daddy]

College sports becoming too much like the Pros, or a good deal for College athletics where they become self-sustaining and can funnel money back into the school for worthy projects? Discuss.

[quote]Watch what you wear, Bucks. Nike’s watching

by JEFF McCALLISTER / September 20, 2007



It’s no secret Kirk Barton is one of the most powerful members of Ohio State’s football team.

Barton, a 6-6, 300-pound senior offensive lineman, is an All-America candidate who has been controlling opposing defenders since midway through his freshman season.

But now Barton has the weight of the university’s new Nike contract on his shoulders as well. The deal, which took effect Aug. 1 but wasn’t announced until Sept. 12, gets the university more than $26.1 million in cash, clothing and athletic equipment over the next seven years, with Nike options for another three years and more than $12 million.

As you might expect, Nike is serious about protecting its interest, which includes the exclusive right to outfit every OSU athlete, right down to their socks and T-shirts.

The 45-page contract allows Nike to terminate the deal if “Members of any Team fail to wear or use Nike products during practices, games…or other Team-organized occasions including but not limited to photo sessions or interviews…â€

[Ace Purple]

College football is big business, and it has been for a long time.