Chapter 107: Six Endorsements! Tang Lei Attracts Brands’ Attention
Before the Warriors' showdown with the Kings, media across China and abroad were saturated with coverage on the NBA's record-breaking winning streak, turning it into a massive trending topic. The NBA eagerly seized the promotional opportunity, announcing that the game would be nationally televised, pushing the hype to a new peak.
When the Warriors' charter plane landed back in Golden State, the airport was packed with fans, almost entirely blocking any entry or exit. Tang Lei felt the full force of the fans' passion, with many Chinese supporters among the crowd chanting, "Go, Lei King!" while holding signs emblazoned with the powerful Chinese character "Tang Lei Moment."
As he waved and smiled at the crowd, Tang Lei and his teammates were quickly escorted by the coaching staff to their team bus and then back to the Warriors' training center, where everyone finally got to head home. Tang Lei drove his BMW X7 back to his apartment, looking forward to some rest after the grueling two-week road trip. Between constant games and travel, he could only think about crashing on his couch.
Just then, his phone buzzed with a call from Rich Paul. Tang Lei knew Rich wouldn't call unless it was important, so he took the call.
"Hey, Mr. Tang Lei! I've got six Chinese brands interested in signing you. I've prepared their offers and partnership proposals; should I email them over?"
"Sure, send it over," Tang Lei replied, nodding. Endorsement deals were a major recognition of a player's value, and for athletes, endorsements were a primary source of income. He wouldn't turn down a chance like this without looking at it first.
"Great! Once you've reviewed the offers, email me back. I'll come by the day after tomorrow to finalize things for you. Enjoy your night," Rich said, hanging up.
No sooner had the call ended than an email notification popped up on Tang Lei's phone. He opened it, eager to see the offers. His rise in popularity within the NBA was well established, but aside from his shoe deal, no American brands had approached him yet. Tang Lei knew that as a Chinese player in the NBA, some brand sponsors might be hesitant. Brands look not only at an athlete's notoriety but also at their audience reach, and his current U.S. fan base was still modest.
But in China, it was a different story. With only one Chinese player in the NBA, and an impressive one at that, he had already won the adoration of fans across the country.
As Tang Lei scanned the email, he found six Chinese brands that had submitted detailed contract offers:
- Stride Gum: 2 years, 10 million CNY
- Wei Long*(Snack Brand): 3 years, 16 million CNY
- Dove Chocolate: 3 years, 18 million CNY
- Septwolves (Apparel): 4 years, 25 million CNY
- Xiaomi (Tech Brand): 4 years, 30 million CNY
- Hongqi (Auto Brand): 5 years, 50 million CNY
Tang Lei smiled, recognizing each brand's reputation in China. While the endorsement offers didn't quite match the amount of his Anta shoe deal, he understood why. Shoes were something he'd be seen wearing publicly at every game, providing unmatched visibility. The exposure from other brand partnerships was more limited, with far fewer restrictions beyond not using a competitor's products. Furthermore, such contracts provided guaranteed income regardless of game outcomes or potential injuries, offering him long-term stability.
After some thought, he quickly replied to Rich's email, "Let's go for all of them."
There was no downside to accepting these offers—solid brands, dependable reputations, and mutual benefits for both parties. He'd get paid to lend his image to reputable companies, and they'd gain a star ambassador to boost their brand.
A true win-win.
I wish I get a contract like Tang Lei haha, Make some dolla