Tom Jurich: Adidas the only company UofL considered

There’s that magic tough again, the Tom Jurich Wow! factor.

The University of Louisville and Adidas have agreed to a five-year deal valued at almost $40 million over five years that places UofL among the top five athletic departments nationally in footwear and apparel rights among all brands.

UofL was not involved in discussions with any other companies, including Nike, according to Jurich.

“No, there was not,” he said during a Thursday press conference. “I wanted to make sure Adidas had the first shot because they were the incumbent. They’ve done a marvelous job for us in the past and we know we can grow together and get better in the future.

“We had a number in mind where we wanted to be. We’ve earned that right, and fortunately they agreed with us. We were able to settle on a number that was extremely generous and allows us to grow as a department.”

The UofL football team will be outfitted with five different Adidas uniforms, with dozens of varying combinations. Men’s and women’s basketball teams will continue to have three to four different uniforms, as well as special post-season attire.

“Their brand is at an all-time high,” said Bobby Petrino, UofL football coach. “It’s definitely going to help us in recruiting.”

Adidas will also make extensive investments in the athletic program, including equipment room expansion, advertising campaigns, digital and video technology, spirit squad support, and a scholarship program for at least 20 students work with athletic department leaders. They also have co-branding opportunities nationally and in UofL facilities, including TaylorMade equipment for the UofL Golf Club.

Fans will reap some benefits as well, including shirts for student season ticket holders and ACC inaugural year fan giveaways.

Adidas is the official apparel provider for the National Basketball Association and Major League Soccer, and 120 collegiate programs, including Michigan, Texas A&M, UCLA, Indiana, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Tennessee.