The Ball State athletics department reached a five-year agreement with Nike that solidifies an already strong partnership between the two groups.

Nike will become the exclusive provider of athletic footwear and apparel for all 19 varsity teams beginning this September. The contract runs from Sept. 1, 2017 through Aug. 31, 2022.

“We are delighted to continue and expand our relationship with Nike,” Ball State Director of Athletics Mark Sandy said. “The Nike brand is the proven leader in athletic apparel and will serve our coaches well as we recruit and retain outstanding student-athletes.”

The deal is the first department-wide contract of its type for Ball State Athletics. Several Cardinal teams already have existing commitments with Nike, including football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball.

What They Are Saying …
Mike Neu, Ball State football coach
“The Nike ‘swoosh’ is the premier brand in collegiate athletics, and for Ball State University to associate with Nike is a tremendous advantage not only for the football program but for all of our teams. This partnership is certainly beneficial for us in recruiting quality student-athletes as recruits know we outfit our program in the best apparel, equipment and footwear available.”

Brady Sallee, Ball State women’s basketball coach
“I am extremely excited to see our relationship with Nike continue. The best of the best wear Nike, and it speaks volumes about not only where our department is but also, more importantly, where it is headed. Our women’s basketball program takes a lot of pride in being a part of the Swoosh Family, and we look forward to wearing Nike for a long time to come.”

James Whitford, Ball State men’s basketball coach
“We are thrilled to see this department-wide relationship forming with Nike. Our basketball team has had the privilege of wearing Nike apparel throughout my tenure at Ball State, and we look forward to continuing to do so under this new agreement. Having an association with the most recognizable brand in sportswear is of tremendous value to our university. Nike is known for excellence, which is something our program is continually striving for.”