https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/adidas-nil-pipeline-is-producing-nba-rookies-who-already-know-the-businessContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/adidas-nil-pipeline-is-producing-nba-rookies-who-already-know-the-businesshttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/adidas-nil-pipeline-is-producing-nba-rookies-who-already-know-the-business#u20541Wed, 01 Jul 2026 19:51:30 +0000Adidas is using NIL deals to give high school prospects early exposure to brand marketing and design. This strategy has resulted in three first-round NBA draft picks entering the league with established brand ties. The program aims to ensure rookies understand the sneaker industry before their professional careers begin.What's confirmed:Three Adidas-backed prospects were selected in the first round of the NBA draft: Darryn Peterson at No. 2 by Utah, Mikel Brown Jr. at No. 6 by Brooklyn, and Karim Lopez at No. 21.Adidas initiated NIL deals with some prospects as early as age 16 or 17.The Adidas