Li-Ning Inks Deal with Evan Turner

Li-Ning signed a footwear and apparel endorsement deal with the #2 2010 NBA Draft Pick, Evan Turner of the Philadelphia 76ers. The news broke earlier today on CNBC and Darren Rovell interviewed Evan Turner, David Falk, and Li-Ning’s brand director, Brian Cupps (watch after jump). This was a power move by Li-Ning, China’s leading athletic brand, and Evan’s signature Li-Ning shoe will be debuted next season.

2010 National College Player of the Year Teams Up With Chinese Sportswear Company

(August 23, 2010 – Portland, Ore.) Li-Ning Company Limited (“Li-Ning” or the “Group”; HKSE stock code: 2331) has officially entered into a long term endorsement agreement with Evan Turner, the 2010 recipient of the Naismith Award, the John Wooden Award and the Associated Press Men’s College Basketball Player of the Year. Turner becomes the latest addition to Li-Ning’s growing cast of global talent and expands the brands’ NBA and East Coast presence. The versatile and multi-faceted guard/forward, headed to the Philadelphia 76ers next season, will join the Beijing-based sportswear company in its quest to create a family of world-class, all-star competitors.

“This is truly a game-changing moment for the Li-Ning brand,” said Li-Ning’s Brand Initiative Director for Basketball, Brian Cupps. “Adding a supreme young talent like Evan Turner sends a message to the global basketball community that Li-Ning basketball is committed to being a player on the global stage.”

Turner, who played collegiately for the Ohio State Buckeyes, led the Big Ten Conference in scoring for two straight years averaging a near double-double in points and rebounds during his collegiate career. The Chicago native led the Buckeyes to a 2010 Big Ten Conference Championship and consecutive NCAA tournaments, including a sweet sixteen appearance.

“It’s great to have the support of a company that’s as eager as I am to perform at the highest level possible,” said Turner. “I am excited to be part of a growing brand and to blaze a new path for future young ballplayers everywhere to follow.”

General Manager for Li-Ning International Jay Li, envisions a bright future for Turner. “We are thrilled to have another star representing Li-Ning,” he said. “To compete and be relevant as a performance sports brand, you need representation of some of the world’s best, and we know we’re getting that in Evan Turner.”

Specific financial terms of the multi-year contract were not disclosed. Turner however will be showcasing his own Li-Ning Sports signature footwear and apparel product line, available globally, beginning in the second year of this agreement. Turner will also play a major role in Li-Ning’s global marketing plans beginning immediately.