Conceptual: The Ambassadors
In collaboration with Josh Berger of Plazm, we developed a PR kit for Nike’s participation in the World Basketball Championships in Japan. I developed the concept of The Ambassadors to illustrate Nike’s global cadre of high-ranking pro athletes. Inspired by the movie Oceans 11, I gave each player a nickname to capture their essence on the court.

Sample Copy:
Tony Parker (FRANCE) The Teardrop
As the crème de la crème of point guards, Tony Parker is what the French call—vite. In English, it simply means quick to the point of being dangerous. Like his signature move, he drives promptly to the basket and releases so fast you’ll never knew what hit you.

Pau Gasol (SPAIN), The Artist
He’s Picasso on the hardwood, maneuvering around his opponents with unrelenting finesse and skill. With a keen eye for the basket and a mean shot, Pau Gasol creates a masterpiece both inside and outside of the paint.

Manu Ginobili (ARGENTINA), The Lefty
He may be left-handed, but he can dunk over the defense with any limb. Right or left, it doesn’t matter to Manu who attacks the basket and moves the ball like he’s dancing the Tango. A word of warning: watch out for his first step.

Dirk Nowitzki (GERMANY) The Dunking Deutschman
At seven feet strong, the German sensation can drive a shot over any defender. From his infamous discovery dunk over Barkley to his near-perfect free-throw average, his opponents constantly ask the question, “Dirk, how is the air up there?”

LeBron James (USA) The Chosen One
He’s ascended the steps of basketball greatness. Racking up awards like points on a scoreboard, LeBron James is one of the world’s most legendary ballers. At 21, he is undoubtedly, the real thing—the king of the court.

Yi Jianlian (CHINA) The Little Giant
Seven feet of towering greatness needs no translation. Neither does 16 for 16 from the field in one game. With a consistent finish above the rim, this young superstar will soon soar above his opponents.