Key Takeaways:
– Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso feature in an NBA playoffs commercial.
– The commercial was narrated by NBA and Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade.
– Reese and Cardoso are shown pretending to wear crowns after being referred to as “queens” in the commercial.
– Wade, being a minority owner in the Chicago Sky franchise, praises the duo on social media.
Promising WNBA Stars Make NBA Commercial Debut
Chicago Sky players Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso were prominently featured in a promotional video recently, for the NBA Playoffs, which debuted on May 19. Wade, an NBA legend and the main face of the commercial, took to social media to applaud Reese and Cardoso, signaling their exciting debut.
Influence and Support from NBA Legend
Interestingly, the commercial had significant involvement from ex-Miami Heat player Dwyane Wade, both as a narrator and principal character. Wade has actively shown support for the WNBA team, especially since becoming a part owner. After the release of the commercial, he shared the sentiment, “It was only right 🤫 #SkyTown.”
Efforts to Celebrate Both Kings and Queens of Basketball
The theme of the commercial underscored a bilateral celebration of basketball’s elites — both men and women. An important moment in the commercial showcases Reese and Cardoso play-acting the act of wearing crowns, symbolizing their royal stature in the WNBA community, following an address by Queen Latifah.
Dwyane Wade’s Connection with the Chicago Sky
Wade’s association with the Sky dates back to his joining the franchise’s ownership group on July 14, 2023. The Sky administration, while quiet about the exact details of Wade’s investment, affirmed his role as a minority owner. Wade became the second ex-NBA player to invest in a WNBA team – a move initially spearheaded by LA Lakers star Magic Johnson with the LA Sparks in 2014.
His commitment to the team is evident in his constant support for the players on digital platforms. When Reese and Cardoso displayed their skills in the preseason of 2024, Wade lauded them using the phrase “Just the beginning! 😎”
Jumpstarting a New Era
The recruitment of Reese and Cardoso, as part of the 2024 WNBA Draft conducted on April 15, was met with enthusiasm by Wade. He reacted by saying, “New era in Sky Town 🫡 #WNBADraft,” and warmly welcomed both women to the team in a follow-up post.
Adding Acting to Their Résumés
Both players also showcased their acting talents for the first time in the commercial. While Reese has appeared in two music videos in 2023, Cardoso has featured in ESPN’s “Full Court Press” documentary that aired on May 11 with Caitlin Clark and UCLA guard Kiki Rice.
Off-Court Extravaganza
Reese wrapped up an exciting day by attending a Megan Thee Stallion concert in Chicago on the night of May 19, where she enjoyed backstage time and an on-stage appearance.
In conclusion, the integration of these two rising stars of the WNBA in the famous NBA playoffs commercial heralds a new era for both the Chicago Sky franchise and the players themselves. It also hints at an increasing collaboration and recognition between the NBA and WNBA, a positive sign for all basketball enthusiasts.