Friday, January 13, 2006

Garnett- Hollywood Hero?

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Garnett is debuting his new shoe with a TV ad that makes him look more like a movie star than a hoops star.

The ad shows Garnett in different roles, from gladiator to stand-up comedian. It's an example of a trend in sports marketing that shines a show-biz light on big-name athletes.

"He gets to play several roles, all of them heroic," explained media guru John Rash, senior VP of Campbell Mithun.

Rash believes the ads add shine to Garnett's NBA superstardom.

"It humanizes him, and makes him an even more compelling character," Rash said. "Not just on the court, but off the court as well."

The campaign is meant to sell viewers on Garnett's newest Adidas shoe, even if the NBA isn't their thing.