Arkansas Freshman Lands Historic Shoe Deal

Darius Acuff Jr. becomes first NCAA men's athlete to get signature shoe from major brand while still in college.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 10:49pm

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Arkansas All-American Darius Acuff Jr., a 19-year-old freshman, has signed a deal with Reebok to become the first NCAA men's basketball player to land a signature shoe from a major U.S. brand while still in college. Acuff was named the 2025-26 Southeastern Conference Player of the Year after leading the league in points and assists per game.

Why it matters

This deal represents a significant milestone for NCAA athletes, who have historically been prohibited from profiting off their name, image and likeness. Acuff's signature shoe will allow him to capitalize on his on-court success and growing popularity, setting a precedent for future college stars.

The details

Reebok head of basketball Jide Osifeso confirmed the historic agreement with ESPN on Tuesday. The 6-foot-3 Acuff is averaging 23.3 points, 6.5 assists and 3.1 rebounds in 35 games (all starts) this season while shooting 44.6% from 3-point range. He is projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

  • Acuff was named the 2025-26 Southeastern Conference Player of the Year.
  • Arkansas has reached the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament as a No. 4 seed.

The players

Darius Acuff Jr.

A 19-year-old freshman for the Arkansas Razorbacks, Acuff was named the 2025-26 Southeastern Conference Player of the Year after becoming the first player to lead the league in points and assists per game since LSU legend Pete Maravich in 1969-70.

Jide Osifeso

The head of basketball at Reebok, Osifeso confirmed the historic agreement with ESPN on Tuesday.

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What they’re saying

“Reebok head of basketball Jide Osifeso confirmed the historic agreement with ESPN on Tuesday.”

— Jide Osifeso, Head of Basketball, Reebok

What’s next

Arkansas will face West Region No. 1 seed Arizona (34-2) on Thursday night in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Darius Acuff Jr.'s historic shoe deal with Reebok represents a significant milestone for NCAA athletes, who have long been prohibited from profiting off their name, image and likeness. This agreement sets a precedent for future college stars to capitalize on their on-court success and growing popularity.