No shoes, no practice

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Arkansas State's leading returning scorer missed basketball practice for a third straight day Wednesday because he doesn't want to wear Adidas shoes.

Guard Jerry Nichols has had two knee operations and says he was initially injured while wearing Adidas-brand shoes when he played at Walters State Community College in 2001.

Arkansas State athletic director Dean Lee said the Indians are contractually obligated to wear the brand this season.

Nichols was told he needed to switch. Instead, he sat out practice Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Lee said the school hoped to put Nichols in touch with Adidas representatives.

"We're working to try to get the parties together and get the situation resolved," Lee said.

Lee cited NBA stars such as Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett, saying they wore Adidas after their knee injuries. Lee hopes if Nichols learns more about the shoes, he will feel more comfortable wearing them.

"In his own description, he has said that this is more psychological," Lee said.

Nichols, who averaged 9.6 points in 2004-05, began practicing this season wearing Nike shoes, according to The Jonesboro Sun newspaper. He hid the logo with tape.

Lee said contracts with shoe companies generally don't allow that solution.

Adidas said its products are safe, and it hopes to help resolve the matter.

"Adidas has produced outstanding quality basketball equipment for all athletes, from the local park courts to the NBA, with every piece made to help athletes to play at their very best," the company said in a statement. "In regards to the situation at Arkansas State University, we are taking the matter very seriously and are currently looking for the best way to handle this situation that is both positive and supportive for the university and its athletes."

Adidas spokesperson Kelly Olmstead reiterated the company's position.

"We're going to be for the athlete every time," Olmstead said. "And we're going to work with him to get the best solution."

The Sun reported in its Thursday edition that Adidas representatives told ASU coach Dickey Nutt new shoes would be delivered for Nichols. An Adidas representative is headed to Jonesboro to meet with Nichols this weekend, the Sun reported.

Nichols' teammates had written his name and number on their shoes Tuesday, the Sun reported, but had wiped the shoes clean for Wednesday's practice.