Adidas has signed Kaleena Smith, a 16-year-old basketball sensation from Ontario, California, as its first-ever high school NIL (name, image, and likeness) partner in women’s basketball. Smith, a sophomore and the highest-rated recruit in the class of 2027, has stunned the sports world with her incredible performance on the court.
A Record-Breaking Player With Unstoppable Stats
Smith’s basketball stats speak for themselves. The 5-foot-6 point guard averages an astonishing 34.9 points, 6.5 assists, and 4.2 steals per game. These impressive numbers earned her the MaxPreps National Freshman of the Year title, placing her among the best young athletes in the country.
She represents Ontario Christian High School and her AAU team while setting a high bar for excellence. With her skills and determination, Smith is quickly becoming a role model for young players nationwide.
Adidas and Candace Parker Back Kaleena Smith
Candace Parker, a WNBA legend and three-time champion, leads Adidas’ women’s basketball program. She personally signed Smith, calling it a significant step toward promoting women in sports.
“Signing Kaleena as our first high school NIL women’s basketball athlete is a pivotal moment for us as we lead in championing women’s sports,” Parker shared.
Smith expressed her excitement as well: “I’m blessed to be part of something Candace is creating. Adidas is taking a unique approach to help grow the game for players like me.”
Multiple Universities Eye Kaleena Smith
Kaleena’s talent has not gone unnoticed by universities across the U.S. Nearly 20 top colleges, including Louisiana State University, the University of South Carolina, the University of Connecticut, and UCLA, have already offered her admission.
These prestigious offers highlight her potential to excel not only in basketball but also in academics. Smith’s future looks exceptionally bright as she balances her athletic and academic ambitions.
A New Generation of Athletes
Kaleena Smith is one of Adidas’ youngest signees, joining soccer player Chloe Ricketts, who was signed at age 15. This move signals Adidas’ commitment to investing in young, talented athletes and shaping the future of sports.
Smith will represent Adidas during her high school games and AAU matches, showcasing her skills and endorsing the brand. Her partnership with Adidas marks a new chapter in NIL deals for women’s basketball and inspires others to pursue their dreams.
