Jordan Nike-only son stalls UCF shoe deal

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 22 (UPI) -- University of Central Florida officials say they hope to strike a new shoe contract with Adidas even though freshman Marcus Jordan insists on wearing Nike.

University recruiters apparently promised Jordan, the son of NBA great Michael Jordan, he could wear the Nike Air Jordan brand on the court; however, that could endanger UCF's $3 million exclusive contract with Adidas.

"They said they had talked to the Adidas people, and it wasn't going to be a problem," the 18-year-old Jordan told the Orlando Sentinel. "I think everybody understands how big of a deal it is for my family."

The matter apparently was not cleared up, however, and the university has not been able to come to an agreement that would extend its 5-year relationship with Adidas. A company spokesman told the Sentinel "these relationships are based upon agreed deliverables for both parties."

The newspaper reported Thursday the proposed six-year contract would outfit UCF players and coaches in basketball and other various sports in Adidas gear at no cost. The current contract accounts for about 1.4 percent of UCF's income from its sports program.

As for Nike, the sports footwear maker said it is already well represented in the Florida college market and is not interested in striking a deal with the Knights.