07-03-2009

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Akron Zips – Nike Zoom Soldier II AU Player Exclusive »

While we await the premiere of the Akron Six (March 13th), let’s take a look at the first LeBron sneaker personalized for the Akron University Basketball team. Last year, Akron’s men’s basketball program begun a three-year partnership with Nike. Under the agreement, the Zips’ shoes, uniforms, warm-ups and accessories will all be licensed under Nike’s LeBron James “LJ23” Trademarks. It’s already the second Ohio based college equipped with King James’ basketball gear. “I’m from Akron, and The University of Akron is my hometown school,” LeBron James said in a statement. “Because of my ties to the Akron community, the University and coach Keith Dambrot, it is important to me that UA is designated as a Nike/LeBron James LJ23 School. I want to be sure that coach Dambrot’s guys look great head to toe.” Previously, adidas was Akron’s official apparel supplier, and all UA sports except men’s basketball will continue to wear adidas as part of a deal through the 2013 season. The Nike men’s basketball agreement will run through August 2011. The King James Shooting Stars Classic (AAU tournament) is also headquartered on the UA campus each April.