That’s the reality behind the Volunteers’ upcoming apparel switch from the Swoosh to Adidas' three stripes, according to longtime Tennessee insider Wes Rucker. After 12 years with Nike, Tennessee’s contract gave the brand the right to counter any competing offer — and they didn’t.

Adidas reached an agreement to replace Nike as the athletic outfitter of the University of Tennessee, effective July 1, 2026, when the current Nike contract ends. Tennessee left Adidas in 2014 to sign with Nike, and Nike’s amended deal runs through 2026.