Report: Nike 'extensively reviewing' why LeBron's jersey ripped vs. Celtics
As the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics squared off in the NBA's season opener Tuesday night, Celtics wing Jaylen Brown grabbed at LeBron James' jersey late in the fourth quarter and caused it to rip, splitting his No. 23 on the back.
The wardrobe malfunction has forced Nike executives to "extensively" review why it tore as easily as it did, sources told ESPN's Darren Rovell.
Nike became the NBA's official apparel supplier this season, kicking off an eight-year deal worth approximately $1 billion.
It was during the preseason when Los Angeles Lakers guard Tyler Ennis had his No. 10 jersey ripped, with the zero hanging off the back.
My guy @TylerEnnis just made this fan's day! I would've thought your brother (@canadiankidDJE) would've been the first to rip your jersey 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/QJFCAUqHma
— Oliver Maroney (@OMaroneyNBA) October 1, 2017
While it would be easy to blame Nike for quality of the jersey, teams often find their own vendors to stitch the names and numbers on, as Rovell points out.
The NBA is auctioning off James' jersey from Tuesday, with bidding at $7,960 as of 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday. The auction ends on Oct. 26.
The urgency of Nike's review could also stem from James' lifetime contract with the brand, paying him at least $1 billion.