American Football: Domination

In the history of professional sports, Nike and Michael Jordan signed a one-of-a-kind contract, granting Jordan a share of profits from his product line.

This groundbreaking deal had its context—at the time, Nike was struggling, losing significant market share to Adidas and Converse. Without such a contract, Jordan wouldn't have even considered Nike.

It was well-known that Jordan preferred Adidas and had practically decided to sign with them.

Nike's all-in gamble resulted in the most iconic endorsement deal in sports history.

It was unprecedented and has remained unmatched ever since.

Even LeBron James, with all his market value, has never received such treatment.

For reference, last season, LeBron generated $30 million in market value for Nike annually, far outpacing other professional athletes. Meanwhile, Jordan's annual profit share alone was $100 million—just the profit share. The total market value he brought to Nike is an astronomical figure.

The disparity is clear.

No matter how you look at it, Jordan's contract stands alone.

Nike has firmly decided not to offer similar contracts to anyone else, and they've held that line over the years.

Until now.

It became clear that Donald's goal was a profit-sharing contract.

3% of global sales revenue?

Undoubtedly, this was a direct parallel to Jordan's deal.

The comparison made the $10 million annual figure suddenly seem reasonable, almost modest.

This was negotiation strategy at its finest.

Donald presented Nike with two options:

$10 million annually.$2.5 million annually plus a share of global sales revenue.

At first glance, anyone would instinctively choose the first option.

It seemed like a straightforward math problem.

But was it really that simple?

Edwards wasn't a fool. He knew there was a hidden third option:

Nike could reject both offers and counter with their terms, refusing to play Donald's game.

In his mind, Edwards' thoughts raced.

Edwards leaned forward slightly. "Donald, Nike is willing to offer Lance a $5 million annual contract for five years. What do you think?"

Profit-sharing? Out of the question.

Instead, Nike was offering an unprecedented annual salary for the NFL, demonstrating their sincerity.

Edwards' skill was evident here—swift, decisive, and calculated. While rejecting Donald's proposal outright, he put forth a counteroffer that was both bold and appealing.

For a brief moment, even Donald felt tempted.

But he caught himself, slamming on the brakes and regaining composure.

"It seems we won't reach an agreement today."

Donald acknowledged Nike's sincerity. The final offer was indeed beyond the current NFL elite level. However, he was looking for more. While Nike showed resolve, they lacked the audacity Donald sought.

Continuing to haggle over $500,000 increments wouldn't be productive. Instead, Donald chose to step back and regroup.

"Of course, I appreciate Nike's offer. Lance will undoubtedly be honored by it. But I'm just an employee; the final decision isn't mine. Let's reconvene at a later time?"

Donald's ability to adapt was remarkable. One moment he was aggressive and domineering, and the next, he was amicable and approachable.

Edwards couldn't help but admit—Donald was a formidable opponent. Hard when necessary, soft when appropriate, and always clear-headed about his strengths and weaknesses.

Now, the ball was in the court of Adidas and Under Armour. They'd undoubtedly hear of Nike's offer, and their responses would determine the next moves.

Edwards realized Nike was once again at a historical crossroads. A decision in either direction could lead to vastly different futures over the next decade.

But what if?

What if all three brands decided Donald was too greedy, too audacious, and collectively walked away from negotiations?

It was a possibility, albeit a slim one.

Under Armour was eager, and Adidas had long been eyeing a foothold in the NFL market. Edwards doubted they would give up easily.

On one hand, the brands needed to act quickly. If Lance continued winning, Donald's leverage would only grow.

On the other hand, they had to remain calm, observing their competitors and waiting to see Lance's next performance.

What if Lance lost his next game? Or performed poorly?

Though such outcomes wouldn't completely overturn the situation, they could weaken Donald's position and diminish his momentum. And the upcoming game was...

After Donald left, Edwards reflected. Finally, he decided to wait for one more game before making a decision.

Because Week 5's matchup was a pivotal moment.

An absolute showdown.

The NFL thought so too.

On October 8th, Sunday Night Football, the Kansas City Chiefs would face the Houston Texans on the road.

In the NFL, night games are premium events. Played during prime-time television slots, they consistently generate massive ratings. The three weekly night games—Thursday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, and Monday Night Football—are carefully scheduled to maximize viewership.

Typically, night games are scheduled well in advance when the season calendar is set. Each team is guaranteed at least two prime-time appearances. However, the NFL also adjusts some matchups midseason to capitalize on compelling narratives.

The Dallas Cowboys, dubbed "America's Team," often appear in three or four night games each season due to their unparalleled fanbase, which consistently drives the league's highest ratings.

For Week 5, Sunday Night Football had a marquee matchup lined up:

The 4-0 Kansas City Chiefs vs. the 2-2 Houston Texans.

At first glance, the Texans' record seemed unremarkable. Why was this game given such prominence?

There were plenty of reasons.

First, there was playoff history.

In the 2015 season, the Chiefs and Texans met in the Wild Card round. Back then, the Texans were an up-and-coming team looking to make a statement, while the Chiefs were desperate to end their decades-long playoff drought. Most analysts predicted a Texans victory.

The result? A humiliating 0-30 loss for Houston, as the Chiefs celebrated breaking their playoff curse.

The Texans carried that bitter defeat into the following season, and when they met the Chiefs in Week 2 of the 2016 regular season, Houston got their revenge. Their defense completely stifled Kansas City, preventing any touchdowns.

Texans fans reveled in the payback, taunting the Chiefs relentlessly.

The grudge was set.

And that was just one of many reasons this game carried weight.

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Powerstones?

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