With so many different endorsements, marketing ploys, and brand developing in sports now, athletes are always on the search to transcend themselves from a player to a household name. In a way, it’s a lot easier now with social media to become likeable/relatable, but at the same time, these athletes are battling each other over those same networks.
Kyrie Irving’s “Uncle Drew” character has struck gold, reminding me of the mid 90’s successful commercials spots like “Fun Police”, “Lil Penny”, and obviously every Michael Jordan ad ever. Kyrie is set to make the leap into superstardom this year, and playing with the post-Lebron Cavs, Uncle Drew will get his name out to the casual fan that isn’t familiar with him despite being a #1 overall draft pick. Nice touch with the Kevin Love cameo, and the legendary Bill Russell. It would be cool if they got five current NBA guys to look old and play against real old players like Oscar Robertson, Dr. J, Magic, Barkley, and maybe even for one take, Russell himself if he can muster up the energy one last time.
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