Yesterday I mentioned Ron Artest’s style and persona with reference to Dennis Rodman and the question of branding. When I talk about branding, the first question that comes to mind is commercial endorsements. With that in mind, check out this retro Reebok Pump advertisement, featuring Rodman with the MVP feet. “Pump Up and Air Out.” The campaign was a direct hit at the Nike Air range which was becoming increasingly popular. Can you imagine a similar line of advertising in 2010?
The Worm wasn’t the only player to get in on the act with these commercials. Check out the inimitable Bill Walton with his big clod-hopping feet.
And then there was Dominique Wilkins, the King of Reebok Pumps. He even takes a quip at Air Jordan — something you wouldn’t see with rival sneaker commercials these days.
Of course, Pumps were made for other sports too. Here is Decathlete, Dave Johnson.
And the Great White Shark, Greg Norman, before he lost all of his Australian accent.
NFL fans had quarterback Boomer Esiason promoting the benefits of the Pump against NFL/MLB star Bo Jackson’s Nike Airs.
