Kelsey Plum Parts Ways with Under Armour, Signals Potential Shift to Adidas

Kelsey Plum, guard for the Los Angeles Sparks, has officially parted ways with Under Armour after months of speculation regarding her footwear choices. The announcement was confirmed by Under Armour in a statement, expressing appreciation for Plum's contributions and indicating a shift in focus for the brand. "We appreciate the partnership we've had with Kelsey and everything she's contributed," the statement read, adding that the company is "moving in different directions." Plum has been seen wearing adidas basketball shoes during Team USA practices and Unrivaled games, suggesting a potential new partnership.

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Plum's relationship with Under Armour began in 2022 when she became a prominent figure in the brand's women's basketball roster. Despite her visibility, she never received a signature shoe but collaborated on player-exclusive designs. Prior to her time with Under Armour, Plum wore Nike during her collegiate career with the Washington Huskies and initially signed with Nike upon entering the WNBA. The recent shift to adidas has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding her departure, particularly as Under Armour previously cited performance issues related to Plum's training.

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Plum's exit from Under Armour follows a trend of high-profile athletes leaving the brand. Notably, Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry also split from Under Armour last November, becoming a sneaker free agent. In contrast, Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper briefly entered footwear free agency before re-signing with the brand. While Under Armour continues to maintain a strong presence in baseball and American football, its recent challenges in the basketball sector are evident.

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As the 2026 WNBA regular season approaches, Plum has not yet officially announced a new sneaker deal, but her recent choice of footwear strongly indicates a potential partnership with adidas. The basketball community is closely watching her next steps, as her decision could have significant implications for both her career and the sneaker industry.

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While Plum's departure from Under Armour has been framed as a mutual decision, some critics have pointed to the lack of a signature shoe and the brand's struggles in the basketball market as contributing factors to her exit. The absence of a strong endorsement deal may have influenced her decision to explore options with adidas.

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• "We appreciate the partnership we've had with Kelsey and everything she's contributed." — Under Armour

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• "It will be interesting to see what she says about their breakup in the future." — Pat Benson, Sports Journalist

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As Kelsey Plum navigates this transition, the sneaker industry remains attentive to her next moves and the potential impact on her career trajectory.

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