Regents Approve new Eight-Year adidas Contract

Lincoln - The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved a new eight-year contract between the NU Athletic Department and adidas America. The contract, which extends through 2013, continues a relationship that began in 1995 and grants adidas the rights to serve as Nebraska’s official apparel and footwear provider.

The new adidas contract provides the University of Nebraska Athletic Department more than $22 million in cash and product. The guaranteed base of $22,725,000 is believed to be one of the top apparel and footwear contracts in Division I Collegiate Athletics. The past relationship between Nebraska and adidas weighed heavily in Nebraska’s decision to move forward with adidas America’s proposal.

"This partnership is the combination of two of the greatest names in sports," NU Athletic Director Steve Pederson said. "The adidas brand is known worldwide as a leader in outfitting top athletes. We are so fortunate to partner with people who care as much about their athletes as they do about their brand. This also means that all of our Husker teams, regardless of sport or gender, will wear the finest athletic equipment available."

While adidas has taken care of a majority of Nebraska’s teams in the past, with product or cash payments, this agreement supports the entire Husker athletic department and each of its 23 varsity sports. In addition to the obvious benefits for Nebraska’s athletic programs, the agreement provides for a generous allowance for unique funding of campus and student-life initiatives.