Kentucky and Nike will Extend Apparel Partnership

Kentucky and Nike are running it back. The Wildcats have been partners with the Swoosh for decades and that’s not changing anytime soon.

Cats Illustrated’s Jeff Drummond reports that Kentucky is expected to sign another long-term deal with Nike. KSR’s Matt Jones confirmed the new deal will be signed this week.

The University of Kentucky ditched Converse for Nike back in 1997. They re-upped with Nike in 2006 and in 2013. The most recent contract was worth $47 million through the 2025 school year. That’s small potatoes compared to what’s next.

Auburn recently switched from UnderArmour to Nike. Tennessee is ditching the swoosh to return to adidas next year for a deal that could be worth up to $20 million a year. In the early stages of the revenue-sharing era, this increase in annual revenue for UK Athletics is just what the doctor prescribed.

The checkerboard pattern has come to define Kentucky’s relationship with Nike in recent years. They looked great on the shoulders of the football uniforms for years, until they received an upgrade ahead of the 2023 season. That was the same year the basketball team received a sleeker look to its uniforms.

The extension with Nike keeps the hopes of denim jerseys alive for Kentucky basketball fans. Even though Mark Pope rocked Converse, Nike acquired the company in 2003. Mark Pope teased a potential return, and that is staying on the table for the 2025-26 season.

Want more coverage of the Cats? Join KSR+

KSR has been delivering UK Sports news in the most ridiculous manner for almost two decades. Now, you can get even more coverage of the Cats with KSR+. In the middle of a busy Kentucky offseason, now is the perfect time to join our online community. Subscribe now for premium articles, in-depth scouting reports, inside intel, bonus recruiting coverage, and access to KSBoard, our message board featuring thousands of Kentucky fans around the globe. Come join the club.