Trending Now - Darius Acuff Jr. Becomes First NCAA Men's Player With Signature Shoe

WHO:

Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas guard

Jide Osifeso, Reebok's head of basketball

WHAT:

Darius Acuff Jr. secured a signature shoe deal with Reebok.

Acuff is the first NCAA men's athlete to receive a signature shoe from a prominent U.S. brand while still in college.

Acuff led the SEC in points and assists per game during the 2026 season.

Acuff scored 60 points in his first two NCAA tournament games, surpassing Kentucky's Pat Riley's record of 58 points for SEC players.

Acuff is only the second player in 50 years to average 30 points and five assists across his first two NCAA tournament games, joining Billy Donovan.

Acuff became the second freshman since 1973 to post consecutive tournament outings of at least 20 points and five assists, following Chris Paul in 2004.

Arkansas captured the SEC tournament title in March 2026.

WHERE:

Arkansas (University of Arkansas)

WHEN:

Acuff's signature shoe deal was announced in March 2026.

The SEC Player of the Year award was given during the 2026 season.

The SEC tournament title was won in March 2026.

Acuff's NCAA tournament performance occurred in March 2026.

WHY:

The deal reflects Acuff's extraordinary season and performance, drawing attention from league evaluators.

HOW:

Acuff's combination of scoring and playmaking led to his recognition and the signature shoe deal.

(UPDATED March 24, 2026 17:56 UTC)

In a groundbreaking move, Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr. has secured a signature shoe deal with Reebok, making him the first NCAA men's athlete to land such a deal from a major U.S. brand while still in college. Acuff has had an impressive season, leading the SEC in points and assists per game, and he recently set a tournament record by scoring 60 points in his first two NCAA tournament games, surpassing the previous record held by Kentucky's Pat Riley. This remarkable performance not only earned him the SEC Player of the Year award but also helped Arkansas capture the SEC tournament title earlier this month.