Jeremy Lin, now with the Beijing Ducks of the CBA, signed with Adidas in 2014 after parting ways with Linsanity-era Nike. Lin’s player editions with adidas showcased his family roots and thoughtful personal style. China-based Li-Ning also made a strong play for Lin’s endorsement rights, but adidas’ financial terms ($3M per year for 5 years) and creative platform ultimately won him over.

But after leaving the NBA, Lin made a big splash by signing with Xtep, China’s 3rd biggest athletic wear brand. His shoe, the Levitation 4, is virtually impossible to snag in the retail market, with the newest colorways being snapped up within minutes of their release.