Sprite

THE FIRST
HOME GAME

 

 

When LeBron James fulfilled his promise to return to Cleveland, we created something that honored where he came from. Sprite commissioned legendary graffiti artist Futura to transform a basketball court in Akron, giving back to his neighborhood.

We built a day that belonged to the community first, cameras second. Skill workshops where kids learned new moves. A free BBQ that brought families together. A high-energy game between Akron and Cleveland players that captured the rivalry and brotherhood of Ohio basketball. The energy shifted when LeBron himself walked onto the court. Surprise turning to celebration as Akron welcomed their son who had kept his word.

Together with Sprite, we designed everything to work as both genuine community moment and powerful brand statement. LeBron's true "first home game" happened right here, on these Akron courts—days before he would step onto the NBA floor in Cleveland. The moments captured in his hometown became a national commercial that resonated across the country. A homecoming celebration that showed what it means when promises are kept and journeys come full circle.