Nike is embracing esports after striking a deal with China's biggest gaming competition, League of Legends Pro League. The deal will see Nike become the official apparel provider for the league, which includes clothing, sneakers, and, eventually, team jerseys.
Announced on Twitter, LPL, which debuted back in 2013 and currently features 16 teams, revealed that the "team jersey designed by Nike will be unveiled during the 2019 World Championship finals."
This isn't the first time major apparel companies have signed deals within the esport industry. Companies like Champion and K-Swiss have both partnered with individual esport teams and players. However, the Nike x LPL deal is the first league-wide agreement. The deal will run through the 2022 season.
“Our unprecedented partnership with Nike will enable LPL teams and players to continue to shine on the world stage,” Leo Lin, co-CEO of LPL operator TJ Sports, said in a statement. “E-sports is a digital sport, and collaboration with Nike will push it to new heights.”
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