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Updated January 18th, 2021 at 11:45 IST

LeBron James to end long-time deal with Coca-Cola? Lakers star might sign up with Pepsi

According to recent reports, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James might sign up with rivals PepsiCo after his contract with Coca-Cola expired last September.

Reported by: Devika Pawar
lebron james
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Over the span of his 18-year NBA career, LeBron James has landed endorsements worth millions. This includes his Coca-Cola deal, which he signed at the beginning of his basketball journey. Now, with the 2020-21 NBA season in motion, reports hint at James reportedly leaving Coca-Cola to sign a deal with PepsiCo. 

Also read | Lakers' LeBron James shows off new $112,595 eco-friendly GMC Hummer EV: Watch

Is LeBron Pepsi deal final?

As per reports by the Front Office Sports, James is gearing up to sign with PepsiCo after having endorsed the Sprite and Powerade brands for Coca-Cola. Reports add the James will be the face of Mountain Dew's new "Rise Energy" line, and could also pitch Pepsi's flagship brand. Additionally, he will join other WNBA and NBA players – Zion Williamson, Joel Embiid, Jamal Murray and A'ja Wilson – in promoting the 'MTN DEW'.

This decision might also affect other investments made by James. This also includes Blaze Pizza – who will probably offer Pepsi products at their locations. As of now, Blaze Pizza offers Coca-Cola products as James owns around 10% of the franchise in Chicago and Florida.

Also read | Kevin Durant hits back coolly at LeBron James' 'friend' for doubting his leadership skills

When did LeBron Coca-Cola contract expire?

However, per reports, PepsiCo and James' spokesperson have declined to comment on the matter. On the other hand, Coca-Cola's representatives stated that James' deal with the company – signed in 2003 – expired in September 2020. “LeBron’s contract came up at a time when both he and The Coca-Cola Company were actively reviewing all of its resources to make sure it was investing in places that ensured long-term growth,” Coca-Cola said while speaking to Front Office Sports. 

They added that after discussing terms with James and his team, they concluded that they should part ways. With his Nike deal in 2003, James also signed with Coca-Cola when he was 18. As mentioned, he featured in Sprite and Powerade advertisements, even bagging his own signature drink – Sprite 6 Mix by LeBron James – in 2014. 

While James was signed with Coca-Cola, the leagues (NBA and WNBA) have partnered with PepsiCo. In 2015, they partnered with the Harrison-based brand to become their official food and beverage partner. Last year, the All-Star game saw the "DEW Zone" three-point contest, even offering fans things like "Courtside Studio". 

Also read | LeBron James' no-look three-pointer earns him $100, Lakers star credits Steph Curry

LeBron James endorsements

One of the richest athletes in the world, James boasts an impressive endorsement portfolio. Along with his Nike deal (and Coca-Cola), James endorses Beats By Dre, 2K Sports and Blaze Pizza. He also has his own production company (SpringHill Entertainment) and media company (Uninterrupted).

He makes approximately $50 million from endorsements – a number expected to increase in case of a confirmed PepsiCo deal.

Also read | LeBron James 36th birthday: LeBron James net worth, family life, NBA career highlights 

LeBron James net worth

As per Celebrity Net Worth, LeBron James is worth $500 million. While James will earn $428 million by 2023 from the NBA, his endorsements and Nike deal make up a significant chunk of his money. In 2015, he signed a lifetime deal with Nike, which could end up being worth $1 billion. He also has endorsement deals with companies like Baskin Robbins, Samsung, McDonald's, Microsoft and more. 

Disclaimer: The above information is sourced from various websites and media reports. The website does not guarantee a 100% accuracy of the figures.

(Image credits: Coca-Cola company site)

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Published January 18th, 2021 at 11:44 IST

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