It has to be hard for LeBron James. I mean, here in Cleveland the best he can hope for in terms of endorsement deals are the likes of Nike, State Farm and Coca-Cola. That list now includes McDonald's, who agreed to a multi-year deal with James it was announced today.
The deal had been expected for awhile since news leaked that James would be in a Super Bowl ad re-making the famous Michael Jordan/Larry Bird 'Showdown' ads that first appeared during teh 1993 Super Bowl. In that commercial, the Hall of Famers engaged in a game of H-O-R-S-E with the winner getting a Big Mac. Bird and Jordan traded imaginary trick shots -- the final one off a skyscraper's roof top -- which had to be sunk with "nothin' but net."
"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 am 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."
James, who has two young boys, fits McDonald's wholesome image and his worldwide popularity makes him an ideal ambassador for the company.
"LeBron is an All-Star, both on the court and in the community," said Neil Golden, McDonald's USA chief marketing officer. "We're looking forward to working with LeBron to showcase our brand in surprising ways while also raising awareness of and support for Ronald McDonald House Charities."
James will be joined in the new version of the commercials by Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic.