As a Jersey native, I must pay tribute to my two great NJ colleagues responsible for the title of my most recent article. For those who miss Google references and listen to the song “Funky Uncles”. But apart from that title and reference, this article has nothing to do with Reggie Noble. This article is about the starting point guard and the top three of the Cleveland Cavaliers; Kyrie Irving. Honestly this article is about Kyrie. We’re really going to focus on his Uncle Drew alter ego.
For those who do not know any better, Drew is back in his new four-minute commercial with Pepsi. This commercial takes place with Miami as the backdrop and is known only as “Chapter 4”. Drew is still on his mission to rally his army for their epic comeback with just “Get the bucket”. He sat down with two old acquaintances, and they recalled some old memories while discussing some of his current talents. Drew was later told that a past rival had disgraced his name during his absence. Drew instantly confronted him about the matter, which led to a game of “Horse” for the ages. The commercial was directed by, and obviously starred Kyrie, while also featuring JB Smoove, Baron Davis, and Ray Allen. Drew has become a refreshing spokesperson for Pepsi, with fans instantly connecting with the ad and its many messages. In my personal opinion, I feel Kyrie should do more with Drew. Make another appearance as the character, maybe have options with him in NBA 2k, in addition to compete in one of the All-star weekend events as Uncle Drew. I have a feeling this will bring great passion to the event in addition to wider recognition for the brand.
It seems that Pepsi, Nike, and Kyrie have really nailed this alter ego. This mini film has brought back the feeling of genius marketing campaigns of yesteryear featuring athletes. Perhaps the three most popular that come to mind are “Grandma”, the 1993 retirement addition to Jordan featuring Steve Martin, and the Lil Penny commercial voiceover by Chris Rock. Granny is quite simple for what it’s, but more than effective; may have been the inspiration for a scene in Martin Lawrence’s “Big Mama’s House.” Jordan’s retirement adverts all escaped our much-anticipated returns at the time; and also spawned a new group of releases for advertising characters Johnny Kilroy, Motorboat Jones, Fontay Montana, Bentley Ellis, Slim Jenkins, and Calvin Bailey. Lil Penny is possibly the most famous alter ego of the past mainly because he has several commercials and segments that don’t feature the athlete. But all of these campaigns have one thing in common, which is about sneakers. Recently with “The LeBron’s” and “Cliff Paul” we saw adverts with these types of characters for endorsements unrelated to any type of sneaker. Kyrie has absolutely taken note of all of this, and has created his own classics. None of these other campaigns have been as long, detailed, or involved this much acting by athletes.
For a moment some of you may think that I left the world I was so comfy in, and submitted my first non-sneaker related article in Social Lifestyle. Well I’m sorry but sadly you are all mistaken. Along with releasing another great movie mini commercial. Pepsi, Kyrie, and Nike have collaborated for a limited edition version of the Nike Kyrie 1. The shoe is limited to 150 pairs, and is quite possibly the rarest Kyrie 1 to be released so far. Comes with packaging that rivals that of Nike Air Mag. Pepsi x Kyrie 1 comes in a mini locker containing, sneakers, written letter from Uncle Drew, Uncle Drew bobbleheads, a Pepsi x Drew Nike hoodie and a few stickers to cover the lockers. 150 has been given out completely to a few people who are in the sneaker game. The shoes are what Nike considers a release from family and friends. The shoe contains a white upper, rubber sole, and a 3m Pepsi Blue swoosh containing some of Drew’s best quotes. The perfect release to top off a promotion and as a natural mystic for their campaign.
There’s some excellent news about the release for us average joes although. Pepsi is offering 15 pairs to those who choose to enter the contest for packages. The contest will be open until December 3rd, and can be entered up to 63 times. The contest must be entered using the points on their Pepsi Pass App. I, like many of you, hoped to be rich, and be voted the winner of the contest. I believe the shoes are great, the marketing is spot on; and also like i said before i must support someone from my country. In short, good luck and stay fresh Youngbloods.
Shout out to Sneaker Sensei for the great job
