The collaboration between adidas and Patrick Mahomes has reached a significant milestone with the signing of six Texas Tech University student-athletes to NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, marking the launch of Team Mahomes. This group of athletes, representing a diverse range of sports including football, softball, basketball, golf, soccer, and baseball, was unveiled with much fanfare during a surprise visit by Mahomes to the Texas Tech campus. Each athlete received personalized Mahomes gear, promoting Mahomes’ signature line of shoes and apparel with adidas. This initiative is a part of the ongoing partnership between adidas and Texas Tech, which was solidified earlier with a 10-year agreement making adidas the official outfitter for the Red Raiders.
Patrick Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl champion and Texas Tech alumnus, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership and the selection of these student-athletes. Mahomes emphasized that the collaboration aims to celebrate excellence and value dedication and drive, both on and off the field. His personal involvement in choosing these athletes shows the importance he places on this initiative, which he views as a way to give back to his alma mater and support the next generation of sports talent. Mahomes made a surprise appearance at a Red Raiders football team gathering, where he unveiled the team’s new uniforms, set to be showcased in the upcoming fall season.
Chris McGuire, Vice President of Sports Marketing at adidas, highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership, noting that it aims to build long-term equity in sport through substantial investments. The inclusion of these six student-athletes in Team Mahomes follows adidas’ belief in nurturing talent and creating opportunities for young athletes to shine.
Furthering the partnership, Mahomes announced a significant donation to Texas Tech Athletics, contributing to the completion of the South End Zone and Dustin R. Womble Football Center project, the largest facility investment in the university’s history. The new facilities are expected to provide state-of-the-art resources for athletes.
Texas Tech Athletics Director Kirby Hocutt praised the creation of Team Mahomes as a landmark moment that reinforces Texas Tech’s position as a national leader in NIL initiatives. Hocutt acknowledged the unique impact that Mahomes has as a generational athlete who not only excels in his professional career but also gives back to his community in meaningful ways. The partnership with adidas and the establishment of Team Mahomes serve as a blueprint for how universities can leverage relationships with successful alumni to enhance their athletic programs and provide new opportunities for student-athletes.
Looking ahead, the partnership’s impact extends beyond the initial cohort of six athletes. Through the adidas NIL Ambassador Network, all eligible Texas Tech student-athletes have the opportunity to participate. This inclusive approach has already seen over 12,000 student-athletes nationwide take part, earning commissions from sales of key products and campaigns.
