Lexington, KY โ March 30, 2025 โ In a landmark deal ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, Kentucky Wildcatsโ star Koby Brea has signed a multi-year endorsement contract with New Balance, setting the stage for his rise as one of the next faces of the global sportswear brand.
Brea, widely projected as a first-round pick in the upcoming draft, met with several leading shoe companies this spring in Los Angeles, negotiating a package that merges Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights with his future NBA deal. After extensive discussions, he has officially joined New Balance, a brand making aggressive moves in the basketball market in recent years.
A Future Face of New Balance Basketball
Brea’s signing aligns with New Balanceโs recent push to compete with industry giants like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour. The company, which has built a roster featuring stars like Kawhi Leonard and Jamal Murray, is now investing in younger, up-and-coming talent.
โNew Balance is doing something special in basketball right now,โ Brea said in a statement. โTheir vision, commitment to player development, and focus on individuality match my goals both on and off the court. Iโm honored to be part of this movement.โ
The 6-foot-6 shooting guard played a pivotal role for Kentucky this season, showcasing elite three-point shooting, defensive versatility, and leadership that helped the Wildcats remain competitive on the national stage. Scouts have praised his NBA-ready skill set, particularly his deadly accuracy from beyond the arc and his ability to play multiple positions.
A Historic NIL + NBA Deal
Breaโs deal with New Balance is one of the first major agreements blending NIL rights with a rookie contract. While NIL opportunities have allowed college athletes to secure endorsements, this agreement extends beyond his collegiate career, ensuring long-term brand partnership and financial security.
Industry insiders suggest that New Balance sees Brea as a key marketing figure, given his strong social media presence, charismatic personality, and growing influence among younger basketball fans.
Whatโs Next for Brea?
With the 2025 NBA Draft approaching, Brea is expected to continue training while preparing for pre-draft workouts and team interviews. His combination of elite shooting, defensive instincts, and high basketball IQ makes him an attractive target for multiple NBA teams looking to add a dynamic perimeter player.
As the draft nears, expect Breaโs stock to rise, and with his New Balance deal now secured, heโs set to become not only a rising NBA star but also a prominent name in basketball endorsements for years to come.
For more updates on Koby Brea and NBA Draft news, stay tuned.
