RJ Barrett
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RJ Barrett is one of the hottest rookies on the shoe market and the New York Knicks wing has narrowed down his choices.

RJ Barrett has the chance to be larger than life in the Big Apple. The No. 3 draft pick by the New York Knicks, Barrett is a hot commodity right now.

However, he still has yet to sign a shoe deal and according to ESPN’s Nick DePaula, the Duke product is deciding between three companies.

“Two weeks have passed since Williamson signed, and four of this year’s lottery picks are still waiting for deals, led by one of Williamson’s former Duke teammates. No. 3 pick RJ Barrett is deciding among Nike, Adidas and Puma, according to industry sources,” wrote DePaula.

Of course, Nike is the crème de la crème of shoe brands. It’s the biggest and most recognizable of his three choices. Headlined by names like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Paul George, and LeBron James, Nike has a strong grip on the market.

Adidas would give Barrett an opportunity to stand out more as one of the young faces of the brand. James Harden, Damian Lillard, and Donovan Mitchell are among the biggest faces of Adidas.

With all that said, Puma represents a unique chance for Barrett to set himself apart with a revitalized brand. Better yet, Puma has a distinct connection to the Knicks. Kevin Knox is currently signed to Puma and Knicks legend and MSG Networks broadcaster Walt “Clyde” Frazier has a lifetime deal with the brand.

It’s still unclear who Barrett will ultimately sign with. We’re just waiting for the other shoe to drop—pun intended.

 
NY/NJ hoops reporter (NBA/NCAA) & sports betting writer for XL Media. Never had the makings of a varsity athlete.