Arkansas' Acuff lands historic Reebok shoe deal
Why it matters: This deal redefines NIL for college athletes and cements Acuff's status as a generational talent.
- Darius Acuff Jr. landed a historic signature shoe deal with Reebok, marking the first time an NCAA men's athlete has done so with a major U.S. brand while still in college (per Jide Osifeso, Reebok's head of basketball, to ESPN).
- Acuff is ranked No. 8 on ESPN draft analyst Jeremy Woo's Big Board for the 2026 NBA draft, reflecting his high potential.
- Acuff led the SEC in points and assists per game, a feat not seen since Pete Maravich in 1969-70, and propelled Arkansas to a Sweet 16 appearance with record-breaking NCAA Tournament scoring.
- Reebok secures Acuff as their first men's basketball athlete with a signature shoe since John Wall, signaling a significant move for the brand.
Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. has made history by securing a signature shoe deal with Reebok, becoming the first NCAA men's athlete to achieve this with a major U.S. brand while still in college. This groundbreaking deal highlights Acuff's exceptional talent, underscored by his SEC Player of the Year title and record-breaking NCAA Tournament performances, positioning him as a top prospect for the 2026 NBA draft.
