The Deal
New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby has officially signed a multi‑year endorsement deal with Skechers Basketball, confirmed on July 24, 2025, ushering him into the brand’s growing roster alongside fellow NBA stars. Anunoby will feature prominently in Skechers’ global marketing campaigns and wear its flagship basketball models the SKX Nexus and SKX Reign during games and promotional events.(Globedge)
Why This Partnership Matters
A New Face for Skechers Basketball
Skechers’ basketball division has rapidly expanded since entering the sport in late 2023 by signing marquee names like Joel Embiid.(Bleacher Report) Anunoby joins notable endorsers including Julius Randle, Norman Powell, Terance Mann, and Jabari Walker, as well as WNBA stars Rickea Jackson, Jackie Young, and Kiki Iriafen.(Sneaker News)
Signature Style & On-Court Fit
Already spotted wearing Skechers during key playoff moments, including a viral dunk over Derrick White, Anunoby moved from Nike to Skechers earlier in the season and organically helped push the brand’s visibility.(SI)
He praised the footwear for its performance: “I play quick and low to the court. I jump and move a lot. Skechers has the shoe to keep me comfortable, keep me protected and keep me playing my best.”(Sneaker News)
Brand Collaboration: European Tour & Marketing
Anunoby will participate in a Skechers European Basketball Tour alongside Nets guard Terance Mann starting July 26 in Belgrade, with stops planned in Berlin, Frankfurt, and Zadar. The tour aims to elevate Skechers’ basketball profile across Europe and engage fans through media events and retail activations.(Bleacher Report)
As a brand ambassador, he is set to appear in global marketing materials aimed at showcasing Skechers’ “Comfort That Performs” messaging.(Skechers U.S.A., Inc.)
Career Context & NBA Fit
- Anunoby enjoyed a career best season in 2024–25, averaging 18.0 PPG and establishing himself as a defensive anchor in New York. He’s under contract in the second year of a five year, $212.5M deal.
- Known for lockdown defense and highlight reel plays, he aligns neatly with Skechers’ shift toward performance-focused athletic branding.(Globedge)
Competitive Landscape & Brand Strategy
Skechers’ entry into basketball represents a challenge to established giants like Nike, Adidas, and Jordan Brand. Signing a two-way standout like Anunoby boosts credibility and differentiates Skechers with a growing roster of high level NBA talent.(Sneaker News, Bleacher Report)
Anunoby’s combination of athleticism, defense, and viral playing moments especially while wearing Skechers makes him a strategic choice for elevating the brand’s performance shoe reputation.(Sneaker News, Sole Retriever)
Reactions & Community Buzz
Reddit fans and Knicks supporters welcomed the partnership, noting its novelty:
“Kawhi has New Balance, OG has Skechers lol” and “The few pairs of Skechers I’ve owned have been SUPER COMFORTABLE. Good for OG.”(Reddit)
While Skechers is still building its basketball pedigree, Anunoby’s investment in the brand both professionally and visibly may sway skeptics.(Reddit)
Implications & Looking Ahead
- Visibility & Growth: Expect expanded marketing campaigns and community events featuring Anunoby across Skechers’ international markets.
- Signature Model Possibility: Though not confirmed, his influence may lead to a signature sneaker line in the future.
- Performance Validation: Continued on-court success could reinforce Skechers’ credibility as a performance first brand, attracting comparison with established athletic lines.
- NBA Relations: As more players adopt non-traditional brands, Skechers may reshape endorsement norms within the league.
Summary
- OG Anunoby, New York Knicks wing, signed a multi year endorsement with Skechers Basketball on July 24, 2025, joining top-tier NBA and WNBA talent.(Sole Retriever)
- He will play in and promote the SKX Nexus and SKX Reign models and represent the brand globally, including on a European tour beginning in late July.(Bleacher Report)
- Anunoby’s dynamic playing style, strong defense, and growing popularity align with Skechers’ push into elite basketball performance footwear.
- This move further legitimizes Skechers in the competitive sneaker endorsement space and marks a distinct shift for NBA players exploring alternative shoe partnerships.
