So here it is, the first edition of my what I’ve read this week that I think you should read as well. We’ll waste no time and get right to it. Didn’t want to overload you on the first edition, so here’s five articles with some great content!
- Nike v. Adidas, the battle continues (Partnership Activation) – in the soccer world, Nike and Adidas battle for talent just like they do in each of the other major sports. As far back as I can remember (which is to the Nike commercial featuring the Brazilian team in the airport), the two brands have battled it out with their commercials. This time around, Adidas goes for the more viral type commercial of Messi and Xavi bowling with soccer balls, whereas Nike goes for the recently popular camera in the action approach, making sure to prominently display that Nike swoosh. Which do you like better? I think the Nike one is too similar to some of their other spots of late (like LT and the Jordan commercial), but I guess it keeps the consistent theme.
- NBA goes Social (Jason Peck) – This is a great look at the NBA and how it is really leading the leagues in terms of social media activation, through websites, Twitter, YouTube, etc.
- Ryo Ishikawa, Golf’s Next Superstar? (NY Times) – Tiger’s gone for a few months, so we need someone to watch don’t we? Ryo may be the next big thing and the first big thing out of Japan on the PGA tour. The media were apparently all over him this past weekend at the Northern Trust Open this weekend, despite missing the cut after an opening 36 shooting even par. Keep an eye on him, I’m sure Nike, Adidas, Titleist, Ping, FootJoy, etc. will be!
- What’s A-Head in Advertising? (Joe Favorito) – Talk about using your head! Maybe the next big thing in sports advertising is slapping a temp tattoo on Zinedene Zidane’s head so that his next headbutt is sponsored by you!
- Michigan State raises ticket prices…and explain why! (Sports Biz w/ Darren Rovell) – So this isn’t as much an article as a featured press release. Michigan State took a potentially harmful move in raising ticket prices, but explained to their fans why they needed to do so. It presents an amazing level of transparency, and I can’t see fans being as angry as they would have been without the explanation.
Well, read up everybody. You will be tested on Tuesday regarding the material above. Bring your #2 pencils!
