Since joining the Big Ten in 1990, Penn State’s athletic teams have been sponsored by Nike. But, in September 2025, the university announced that it would be ending its 33-year partnership with Nike, with Adidas taking over on July 1, 2026.
Nike began sponsoring Penn State Athletics partly because of the close relationship between Joe Paterno, the former Penn State Football Coach, and Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike. The world of college sports has changed dramatically in the decades since, especially with name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals now at the forefront.
The new 10-year Adidas agreement stands to bring the school more revenue, resources, and athletic promotion. The deal, estimated to be worth $300 million, includes dedicated funding and brand campaigns for all 31 varsity sports. It also promises to provide groundbreaking NIL and marketing opportunities for the student-athletes.
“Apparently, this is one of the largest deals ever with college sports. So definitely excited for Penn State moving forward,” Katelyn Roberts, a senior forward on the Penn State Women’s Ice Hockey team, said.
Despite these benefits, some local fans are not yet supporting this switch.
“I personally don’t like it. I feel like Nike’s uniforms are better, and I feel like the clothing is more comfortable,” freshman Jack Oknefski said.
Devoted fans who want to keep up with the team may need to purchase new gear, though Penn State hopes Adidas will give the program a fresh identity.
Penn State Womens Volleyball Head Coach and Jimmy V Award for Perseverance recipient, Katie Schumacher-Cawley, offered her take on the switch.
“We will be one of their top schools, and they will come out with some sharp-looking gear,” Schumacher-Cawley said.
Although this switch will bring Penn State Athletics significant financial benefits, it may take time for the current student-athletes to adjust to the changes. Switching equipment and gear could pose challenges, depending on personal preferences.
“I mean, as a hockey player, it’s different, but for the athletes who do use all Adidas apparel, it’ll be interesting to see how cleats fit, how their shoes fit, how their gloves fit…it’ll be a curve for a lot of people to get used to,” Roberts said.
For some student-athletes, this change is already working out. Schumacher-Cawley addressed the impact of the Adidas gear on player performance.
“Our players already like their spandex better, I think, they’re highwaisted, so I think if the girls are more comfortable in those type of shorts, then I think it will definitely help them,” Schumacher-Cawley said.
While the details are still unfolding, it will be exciting to witness such a significant change for Penn State Athletics when the transition brings higher-end recruits, more overall investment for the program and substantial financial resources. NIL deals are just as important as the sports themselves. Any roadblocks encountered along the way for fans should pay off in the long run.
