Strategy April 12, 2018
JaVale McGee’s New Swag Is Clever Personal Branding
We like our branded merchandise how we like our music: creative, quirky, with a sprig of the unexpected to make you sit up and take notice. That’s why we dig two new pieces of merch that help build NBA center JaVale McGee’s personal brand.
A fan favorite with a reputation for likable eccentricity, the Golden State Warriors 7’-tall baller just released a fanny pack and a sweatband/headband that features his signature hairstyle – little braided “rat tails.”
https://t.co/fx7OiLeJ6A pic.twitter.com/ms7oh191UU
— Javale McGee (@JaValeMcGee) April 9, 2018
The rat tail headband ($19) is definitely unique. It plays into McGee’s personal brand in multiple ways. He’s known to sport a sweatband on the court, his tails visible in the back. Furthermore, the word “Pierre” is a reference to the performer name he uses when making music. McGee’s first musical album is set to release on Friday April 13th. The sweatband builds a bit of extra hype for the debut.
April 13th my (Pierre) debut album is coming out featuring @ericbellinger @tkkravitz @reeselaflare1 @blazeservin @iamsu @justgemaine @pierremusicgroup @romecastille @vory @iitsad @nefthepharaoh @redcupnation @1500ornothin @croosh_ @keithcanvas_ @cocavango Hope you guys enjoy it! pic.twitter.com/6W9uvPedHw
— Javale McGee (@JaValeMcGee) April 11, 2018
The fanny pack ($39) is playful fun, too. A celebration of McGee’s favorite accessory, the fanny pack is dressed up with a cartoon of the baller’s face and a camo pattern in Warriors colors. It also references a bet McGee won over teammate Stephen Curry. The bet resulted in Curry having to sport a fanny pack.
A bet is a bet! #DubNation pic.twitter.com/aLNCTfjuD7
— NBA (@NBA) November 26, 2017
Athlete, musical artist, socially conscious entrepreneur, clever branded merchandiser, and fearless wearer of fanny packs – JaVale, we like your style.
Vote Now
Would you wear a fanny pack? Take the Twitter poll!
Would you ever wear a #FannyPack? Asking for a friend.
— ASICentral (@asicentral) April 12, 2018