University of Tennessee to Switch from Nike to Adidas After Failed Deal

The University of Tennessee is set to reunite with Adidas as its official apparel partner in 2026 after contract renewal talks with Nike fell through. Its decision is now to “switch back to Adidas” as its official apparel supplier. This move comes after the university “could not reach an agreement with Nike to extend its current contract.” The Volunteers have been partnered with Nike since 2014, but their deal with the brand “expires in 2026.” The Vols previously had a deal with Adidas from 1995–2014.

Key Details

• Nike Era Ends: The Volunteers have worn the Nike swoosh for over a decade, with the current contract set to run through the 2025–2026 athletic season.

• Failed Negotiations: The university and Nike entered talks to extend their partnership, but ultimately “could not reach an agreement.”

• Return to Adidas: This upcoming change marks a return to Adidas, which previously supplied Tennessee’s athletic gear for nearly two decades.

What This Means for Tennessee

The switch comes at a pivotal time for college athletics, as schools are increasingly focused on maximizing revenue and providing new opportunities for student-athletes. Adidas has been aggressive in the collegiate space, especially with NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) incentives and athlete branding opportunities.

The Univ. of Tennessee is “switching back to Adidas” after it “could not reach an agreement with Nike to extend its current contract.” The Volunteers had been signed with Nike as their official apparel supplier since 2014, but their deal with the brand “expires in 2026.” The Vols previously had a deal with Adidas from 1995-2014.

A Look Back at Tennessee’s Apparel History

Tennessee’s relationship with Adidas dates back to 1995, when the brand first became the Vols’ official apparel supplier. That partnership lasted until 2014, when Tennessee signed with Nike. Now, after more than a decade with Nike, the Volunteers will return to Adidas in 2026.

Why the Change?

Negotiations between Tennessee and Nike began in late 2024, but the exclusive window closed in March 2025, allowing the university to explore other options. Reports suggest that Adidas offered a more lucrative deal, potentially providing Tennessee with increased revenue and enhanced opportunities for student-athletes.

Fan Reaction

The news has sparked mixed reactions among Tennessee fans. While some are nostalgic about the Adidas era, others have expressed concerns about uniform quality and color consistency from the previous partnership. However, the university’s decision seems focused on the evolving landscape of college sports and the financial benefits for the program.

Tennessee’s return to Adidas in 2026 will mark a new chapter for the Volunteers, blending tradition with the changing dynamics of college athletics.