In celebration of 50 years, Nike threw a huge event this week that featured some of the biggest stars in the world.
As arguably their biggest and most important athlete, LeBron James was like a guest of honor at the scene and even got to watch as the company unveiled a brand new innovation center named after him.
“Wow. I never imagined something like this when I signed 20 years ago. I’ve always had the aspirations of walking on campus and seeing Bo’s building and MJ’s building.”
“I never imagined something like this.”
Even LeBron James was amazed by the new LeBron James Innovation Center 🤯 https://t.co/t58SpvrKCA
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 9, 2022
Of course, this innovation center isn’t exactly fresh news at this point. While the grand opening made for a great event, James had already toured the new facility and even commented on it back in October of 2021.
“Over the course of my career and my time here at Nike, for all of this to come together is surreal. Sometimes it doesn’t make sense to me, but I’m definitely honored,” said James. “Having my name on the Innovation building feels very fitting because I’m always trying to figure out ways I can continue to innovate and continue to break the timeline of what they say is your prime.”
Nike VP Matt Nurse also shared this statement after showing LeBron the building:
“We had him in and it was amazing,” says Nurse, recalling James’ first tour of the new building. “He came in, he referred to it as his sanctuary. And we would like this place to be a sanctuary for athletes of all skills and all abilities. All backgrounds and all body shapes.”
So, what’s inside this new facility? According to Nike, the LBJ innovation center includes various amenities s like a full-sized turf soccer field and specially-designed courts based on LeBron’s personal brand.
It’s going to be a place where Nike’s top contributors can come together and work towards building the best products possible.
As for James, he has already played his part. After a show of excellence on the court for nearly two decades, I can’t think of anyone more deserving of their own Nike center than LeBron.
Clearly, his deal with Nike has been advantageous for both sides and now they are coming together to celebrate.
