Bryant has said there was no crime and that the sex was consensual. He is free on bond and has a preliminary hearing Oct. 9
Earlier, Coke said it had planned to stop running Bryant ads temporarily even before the accusations against him were disclosed. Coke reiterated Thursday that Bryant is under contract with the company until 2005, though Williamson could not say what role Bryant will play in future Sprite ads. He said they are still under development.
The new marketing deal with James, the Cleveland Cavaliers rookie and No. 1 draft pick, will include extensive marketing for Sprite and Powerade, including advertising, promotions and appearances. Financial terms were not disclosed.
James, 18, grew up in Akron, Ohio. Like Bryant, he skipped college and entered the NBA draft right out of high school. He has already secured over $100 million in endorsement deals, including a $90 million contract with Nike and a $6 million contract with Upper Deck trading cards.
"I have always admired the way Sprite and Powerade spoke to young people and athletes, and I can't wait to be a part of it," James said in a statement after the deal was announced.
Last week, Gatorade pulled out of negotiations with him.
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