The basketball sneaker industry produces over $5 billion in revenue annually. But while elite NBA stars fuel the industry, players are behind when it comes to having ownership within the sneaker industry.
Atlanta native, NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown could change the sneaker industry with the launch of his independent brand, “741.” The numbers 7, 4, and 1 have appeared frequently, each representing spiritual awakening, hard work, and new beginnings, respectively.
Brown’s ambitious venture comes after he turned down over $50 million in endorsements to launch his own brand. After Brown’s Adidas deal was completed three years ago, Brown declined to sign a contract with a major sneaker brand, often calling out the companies for what he believes is a failure to grant athletes creative control.
During an interview on the “Point Forward” podcast, Brown, a star player for the Boston Celtics, spoke about how players are treated by major sneaker companies after their careers decline.
However, as Ewing’s career declined on the court, Ewing Athletics suffered and the company eventually folded in 1995. With the rise of sneaker culture and homage to retro brands, Ewing Athletics relaunched in 2012 and continues to enjoy a profitable second act. Last month, Ewing Athletics announced a new collaboration with reggaeton artist Yandel.
In 2023, Orlando Magic’s Jonathan Isaac released the JUDAH 1, the first NBA-level basketball shoe with a visible Bible verse.
