Lot of discussion and theories about shoes....Nike v. Adidas. I know they're both big/huge companies. Lot of money involved. Prestige. Market share. And so forth. But what about 'steering' kids to their respective programs/customers? Is it the theory of this board that they pay the kids parents? Make promises of huge endorsement contracts once they go pro?
I think most 17 and 18 year olds aren't that interested in the name of the shoe other than keeping up with the latest or what's hip and cool. Styles change, etc. Doubt if they're interested in the business aspect of the different shoe companies. I can see the reps of the companies playing games for exposure, etc. but is there really something more sinister at work here, other than trying to get a leg up on the competition? Sponsoring multiple AAU tournaments, etc. And if so, these H.S. kids are amateurs not pros. Wouldn't there me some type of laws if payments are made and/or promised? Would it not affect their amateur status?
I think most 17 and 18 year olds aren't that interested in the name of the shoe other than keeping up with the latest or what's hip and cool. Styles change, etc. Doubt if they're interested in the business aspect of the different shoe companies. I can see the reps of the companies playing games for exposure, etc. but is there really something more sinister at work here, other than trying to get a leg up on the competition? Sponsoring multiple AAU tournaments, etc. And if so, these H.S. kids are amateurs not pros. Wouldn't there me some type of laws if payments are made and/or promised? Would it not affect their amateur status?
