The Complex Sneakers Podcast Tracy McGrady Says Kobe Leaving Adidas Helped Him Get a Bigger Deal
Dec 12, 2025
Former NBA All-Star Tracy McGrady shares insights from his sneaker journey. He reveals how Kobe Bryant's exit from Adidas opened doors for him to secure a better deal. Tracy reminisces about the excitement of LeBron James wearing his shoes in high school and discusses the evolution of Adidas basketball. He also reflects on his infamous baggy suit moment, his love for Yeezys, and the importance of letting a player's personality shine in branding. With humility, he stresses the value of legacy and inspiring the next generation.
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Sonny Vaccaro’s Early Big-Promise Pitch
- Tracy McGrady recalls Sonny Vaccaro promising a $12 million Adidas deal straight out of high school and using Kobe as an example of Sonny's work.
- McGrady accepted Adidas partly because Sonny said Adidas would line up a bigger deal after three years if he performed.
Designing A Low-Cut Signature Shoe
- McGrady describes choosing a low-cut Superstar-derived basketball shoe to match his swag and large feet.
- He wanted a sneaker that felt like a lifestyle piece off court as much as performance on it.
Kobe Leaving Opened Bigger Doors For McGrady
- Tracy McGrady says Kobe Bryant leaving Adidas freed up money and led to McGrady renegotiating for a bigger deal.
- He credits getting his “big deal” after Kobe's exit which shifted Adidas' allocation.