SAN FRANCISCO, March 31 (Reuters) - Nike Inc (NKE.N) has extended its contract with basketball star LeBron James, one of the sports gear giant's top athletes.

Photo: www.nike.com

Nike provided no details of the contract, but said in a short statement on Wednesday 31 March that it was "proud to continue our partnership with him for years to come."

"Nike's relationship with LeBron has created innovative basketball products and captivating campaigns," said Nike.

James, who plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers, had a seven-year contract with Nike that was due to expire soon, according to Cleveland newspaper The Plain Dealer. It said the new deal will keep the two together for at least the next seven years.

James, who becomes a free agent in July, won the National Basketball Association's Most Valuable Player award in 2009. (Reporting by Alexandria Sage; Editing by Bernard Orr)