April 25, 2010

It’s always a welcoming sight to witness all-star, professional basketball players excelling on and off the basketball court and still finding time to give back to the community. The “King” of the Cleveland Cavailer’s, Lebron James, and the “Superman” of the Orlando Magic Dwight Howard are two such athletes. These supreme athletes are admired by all through there unbelieveable skills on the court. Children of all ages live, breathe, and dream of growing up to be just like these superstars of basketball.  Billions of people each year eat at McDonald’s, a multi-million dollar fast food franchise, and families take their kids to the fast-food restaurant for entertainment. What a great idea it is to combine NBA greats who so many look up to with a multi-million dollar fast-food business that people can’t live without.  Lebron James signed a multi- year endorsement deal with the fast food chain.  Add that to the list of other endorsements James has which include: Nike, State Farm,  Coca- Cola, and Bubblicious and your looking at a NBA giant who will be worth billions over time.  The amount of money James will receive from Mcdonald’s is not yet known, but Dwight Howard signed a $3 million endorsement deal with the company for three years.  ”Last year, Forbes Magazine estimated the 25-year-old made more than $40 million in salary and endorsements.” (Via  NBA.com) Lebron and Mcdonald’s had talks over the past four years so a partnership with the franchise had been well in the making. For those who are unaware, Mcdonald’s has had a long running relationship with Lebron James which started back in his all-star basketball high school days. The “King” of the Cleveland Cavaliers is a prime example of what Mcdonald’s stands for, and James’ two sons are an enhancement to the company’s image as well.

“McDonald’s and I make a great team,” James said. “We share many of the same core values, including  a commitment to excellence and giving back to the community. I’m also excited about the opportunity to work with Ronald Mcdonald House Charities, which helps improve the lives of so many children and their families around the world.” (Via news-herald.com)

Lebron isn’t stopping with charity work with Mcdonald’s, he will also be doing advertising for the company as well. “Lebron is an All-Star both on the court and in the community,” said Neil Golden, Mcdonald’s USA chief marketing officer. (Via news-herald.com) When you go to eat at the restaurant, you will find a picture of James on the outside of your fountain-drink cups. You can’t help but take a minute and ponder about what this basketball powerhouse will accomplish next. “In March, James lent his support to the McDonald’s All-American high school games in Columbus, Ohio.” (Via NBA.com) The money raised from this event will be used in Ronald Mcdonald Houses across Ohio.

Earlier this year the “King” and “Superman” game together for a great cause. Although, they are rivals on the basketball court, they put together a commercial for Mcdonald’s which aired during the superbowl. The commercial is a remake of the famous commercial with Michael Jordan and legendary basketball great Larry Bird.  Right now, as James and Howard are battling in the play-off’s to have a chance at the NBA title we as fans have to take a moment to realize what these stars accomplish off the court as well. There is a great chance that these two powerhouses will meet again and play each other in the playoff’s. Everyone is sure to have their favorite. I know I do! Enjoy the playoff’s eveyone.

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