As if the Satan Shoes debacle wasn’t enough, the bad publicity just doesn’t stop for Nike, who told CNBC yesterday that they have ended their sponsorship of Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson due to mounting sexual assault and misconduct allegations.
“We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and have suspended Deshaun Watson,” Nike said in yesterday’s statement. “We will continue to closely monitor the situation.”
So far, 22 women have come forward, most of whom are massage therapists who had serviced Watson in the past. All of the complaints have been civil, with the single criminal complaint currently being investigated by the Houston Police Department.
“A complainant filed a report with the Houston Police Department concerning Deshaun Watson,” the Department said Friday, April 2nd via Twitter. “As with any allegation, the Houston Police Department is now conducting an investigation and will not comment further during the investigative process.”
One of the first accusers, Ashley Solis, spoke out publicly for the first time during a press conference on Tuesday, April 6th.
“Deshaun Watson assaulted and harassed me on March 30th, 2020 in my own home, doing what I love most–massage therapy,” the masseuse tearfully stated. “I come forward now so that Deshaun Watson does not assault another woman.”
This promoted a response from the NFL, who gave Watson a four-year, $156 million contract extension last September.
“The allegations are deeply disturbing and we take these issues very seriously. Immediately following news of the first allegations last month, and as has been reported, we initiated an investigation under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy. We are continuing to closely monitor all developments in the matter.”
As it currently stands, Watson still has several other multi-million dollar endorsement deals, including Beats by Dre and Rolex.
Add comment