Nike relationship with Kyrie Irving likely over, Phil Knight says

According to the shoe giant's co- founder, the relationship between Nike and Irving is probably over.

Phil Knight said in an interview that he wouldn't be surprised if we didn't return. I do not know for certain.

Last Friday, Nike said it had suspended its relationship with Irving and canceled its plans to release his next signature shoe, part of the massive backlash that followed his link to a film with antisemitic material.

Irving has missed four games because of the Nets' suspension.

Irving's endorsement deal with Nike is believed to be worth at least $11 million annually and he has a signature line of shoes.

Kyrie stepped over the line. It's easy. We ended the relationship because of the statements he made. I was okay with that.

Last month, Irving posted a link to a documentary that included Holocaust denial and conspiracy theories about Jews. Irving defended his right to post in a post game interview.

Irving was suspended by the Nets because he wouldn't say he didn't have antisemitic beliefs. Irving was apparently trying to clarify or apologize.

It's the same situation. Knight stated that he was dug in.

Irving apologized to all Jewish families and communities that were hurt by his post after the Nets suspended him.

Nike stopped its relationship with Irving.

The Anti-Defamation League and NBA commissioner Adam Silver were both critical of Irving. Irving and Silver met in New York earlier this week to discuss one of the many conditions the Nets wanted Irving to complete before they will reinstate him.

A small group of protesters were outside of the arena before the game saying that Irving has been treated unfairly by the team and others.

Knight said that they look at a lot more than just how good an athlete is. It's not an exact science but it's a process that we go through with a lot of intensity.

During his career, Irving has had a lot of controversial opinions. He asked if the Earth was round before apologizing. After the Pandemic hit in 2020, he told players to not participate in the season at Disney World. He wasn't allowed to play in most of the Nets' home games last year due to his refusal to get a vaccine.