Modern NBA All-Star weekend has been held right around Michael Jordan’s birthday, so Jordan Brand tends to go all out. This year not only are they celebrating in New York, MJ’s birthplace, but it is the 30th anniversary of the Air Jordan brand. Not surprisingly they are releasing a ton of sneakers, showcasing the brand’s history and pretty much trying to take over NYC. As you watch the NBA All-Star festivities you will see and hear a familiar tune during commercial breaks, Gatorade’s Be Like Mike commercial.
Digitally remastered, timing is just right as Gatorade is celebrating 50 years in business. So they decided this would be the right time to bring back one of their most popular campaigns. The original ad ran in the summer of 1991 after the Chicago Bulls won their first title. Gatorade just signed Jordan as their first official athlete sponsor to a 10-year deal and they wanted to kick off the partnership with a bang. And that they did with the highlights of MJ in his Air Jordans along with playing with kids and that oh-so-catchy tune. And bet you didn’t know Disney’s “The Jungle Book” song “I Wanna Be Like You” was suppose to be in the commercial but they wanted $350,000 to use the song. Disney to the “L” for that one.
If you just can’t wait here is the redone commercial in all its glory. Also to commemorate the spot Gatorade is reviving one of MJ’s favorite Gatorade flavors, Citrus Cooler. So look for that at your favorite convenience store too.
