Adidas and the Brooklyn Nets announced they had formed a multi-year partnership central to connecting with kids through basketball.

The newly named Brooklyn Nets Basketball Academy presented by Adidas will receive Adidas support to grow the partnership at the grassroots level in Brooklyn and beyond.

Adidas will become the preferred merchandise and equipment provider for all of the Academy’s programs. Select James Harden Adidas apparel will be sold in the team store, Brooklyn Fanatics, at Barclays Center. Harden, a star guard for the Nets, is an Adidas ambassador.

Adidas will also create customized digital content featuring Harden and his future Adidas Basketball footwear.

“We are thrilled to partner with Adidas and advance our shared commitment to growing grassroots basketball through the Brooklyn Nets Basketball Academy,” said John Abbamondi, CEO, BSE Global, the parent company of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center. “The Academy teaches children many important life lessons, and yesterday’s clinic with James Harden was the beginning of our work with Adidas to extend our community impact.”

“We are excited for this multi-year partnership with the Brooklyn Nets. Our relationship with James Harden and our presence with the Brooklyn Nets Basketball Academy will create a lasting impact with the youth throughout the Tri-State Area,” said Aneesh Ahuja, NBA Partnerships lead, Adidas Basketball.

Photo courtesy Brooklyn Nets