Top Raptors Rookie Makes NBA History with Groundbreaking Shoe Deal…

Toronto Raptors rookie Jonathan Mogbo, a second-round draft pick, has made NBA history by signing a multi-year shoe deal with the emerging brand Serious Player Only. As the Raptors rebuild after trading OG Anunoby to the New York Knicks and Pascal Siakam to the Indiana Pacers, Mogbo’s new shoe deal is expected to draw fan interest. However, that could be challenging after the Raptors’ poor 25-57 finish last season, which GM Masai Ujiri described as “a shame.”

Mogbo’s contract marks the first time an NBA player has partnered with Serious Player Only, a basketball brand focused on performance and designed by players. The brand has gained a following thanks to its well-reviewed insole sneakers, according to a post by Nick DePaula on X (formerly Twitter).

Mogbo announced his historic deal via Instagram. Despite being a newcomer to the shoe industry, Serious Player Only products have already been worn in the NBA, with former All-Star Victor Oladipo sporting their “Player 1” shoes.

The Raptors drafted Mogbo with the 31st pick in the 2024 Draft, seeing potential in his versatile skillset, which suits the modern NBA’s demand for big men who can handle the ball and make plays. The team also values his two-way capabilities as both an offensive and defensive asset, according to Sports Illustrated’s Aaron Rose.

While Mogbo averaged 14.2 points and 10.1 rebounds during his time at the University of San Francisco, it’s common for second-round picks to spend time in the G League to adjust to the NBA. The Raptors are likely to focus on helping him develop his offensive game, particularly his three-point shooting.

What makes Mogbo’s deal significant is that he’ll be the only Raptors player not wearing shoes from major brands. Other stars like Immanuel Quickley and Scottie Barnes wear Nike, Gradey Dick is with Adidas, and RJ Barrett and Chris Boucher are partnered with Puma. However, former Raptor Fred VanVleet previously wore Li-Ning shoes.