NBA Draft 2018: Puma signing Zhaire Smith to endorsement deal, reportedly targeting other top prospects

Puma has reportedly inked another projected top 2018 NBA Draft pick to an endorsement deal.

The footwear and apparel company signed Texas Tech guard Zhaire Smith to a contract Sunday, according to a report by ESPN. Puma reportedly agreed to a five-year shoe deal with Duke forward Marvin Bagley III last week.

Rising 1st round Draft prospect Zhaire Smith has agreed to a multi-year footwear & apparel deal with PUMA.

The explosive wing measured a 41.5” vertical at the Combine, and ESPN’s @DraftExpress says Smith “could be the best athlete in the draft.” pic.twitter.com/gq5PP7o3J1

— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) June 17, 2018

Prior to the Bagley deal, Puma had last signed an NBA player to a shoe contract in 1998, when it came to terms with future star Vince Carter. But Carter and the company parted ways less than two seasons into their agreement.

Puma is hoping to sign more players in this year’s draft, according to a report by CBS Sports.

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Smith averaged 11.3 points and five rebounds per game in his lone season with Texas Tech. He is projected to be selected by the Suns with the 16th pick in the latest Sporting News’ 2018 NBA Mock Draft.