Nike and the NCAA have always had an interesting and nuanced relationship. The NCAA is always on the lookout for illicit money going to amateur players, but for many schools, their football programs are the largest source of revenue. Nike sponsors over 85 different college programs, and they keep those teams in the flashiest, newest, most eye catching uniforms possible.
Nike Chairman and University of Oregon alum Phil Knight has been responsible for the school’s over 400 different uniform combinations. In recent years, Nike has introduced what they call “Nike Pro Combat Uniforms” to complement their consumer line of Pro Combat gear. They select ten elite NCAA football teams and outfit them in special uniforms for specific (nationally televised) games.
Today, Nike streamed their uniform introduction event live on Facebook, and allowed viewers to share their thoughts instantly. When the presenter from Ohio State took some time explaining the history behind the 1942-inspired uniforms, users complained about “a history lesson.” When Michael Irvin pointed out that the green helmet for his beloved University of Miami reminded him of money, users made jokes about NCAA compliance, which was a timely reminder of all the recent NCAA investigations into agent/amateur player relationships.
These uniforms were not just for the players – Nike actually sold a limited number of these uniforms as fan packages.
Other sporting apparel companies sponsor NCAA football, but Nike owns it.
