Mohamed Karlakwan Damala Bamba, better known as Mo Bamba, has signed a multi-year endorsement deal with Under Armour. This news comes just days after Under Armour signed league star Joel Embiid.
Formerly of the Texas Longhorns, Mo Bamba was one of the top high school prospects in 2017 due to his 7’10” wingspan and raw athletic ability. In his NBA debut on Wednesday night at center for the Magic Bamba racked up 13 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks. A Harlem native, his parents emigrated to the U.S. from la Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast).
“Under Armour appreciates how culturally important basketball is in Harlem,” said Bamba in a statement. “They feel that Harlem pride and responsibility that I carry, and are ready to support my long-term vision of giving back to the community that raised me.”
Mo Bamba does it on both ends in his NBA debut, posting 13 PTS, 7 REB, 2 BLK for the @OrlandoMagic! #NBARooks #PureMagic #KiaTipOff18 pic.twitter.com/Mhac4bJSrX
— NBA (@NBA) October 18, 2018
While the details of Bamba’s Under Armour deal have not be revealed, he did consider other brands including Nike, adidas, and Puma — the latter of which has been recruiting some of the league’s best young talent with rich contracts.
Last night, Bamba wore both the HOVR Havoc Mid and HOVR Havoc Low, the same shoe that UA star Joel Embiid is wearing (although we should get a signature shoe from his soon).
“I’m now in a position to blaze my own trail,” said Bamba in a statement. Expect backboard shattering dunks and serious handles from Bamba this season. We’ll update you as this story develops.
Source: Under Armour
That’s a good for both parts of the deal!