With his popularity through the roof and Madison Square Garden’s stock at an all-time high as a result of his play, you would think Jeremy Lin would be cashing in on endorsement deals left and right. Lin’s agent, Roger Montgomery, says the point guard has received “over 1,000 emails” from companies who would like to work out an endorsement deal with him.
“There’s been so much interest, and so many people reaching out, it is overwhelming,” Montgomery said according to the NY Post. “They’re working to build a team to handle all this, and hiring marketing and p.r. executives. He has met with IMG.”
Lin has been hesitant to strike agreements, however. He has reportedly turned down offers from a wireless phone company as well as a watchmaker — deals that would be worth “millions.” Many would argue that Jeremy should be striking while the iron is hot, but he has a good head on his shoulders and insists upon being patient.
“Every NBA player wants a contract with a luxury watch brand right now,” one branding guru said. “LeBron James is Audemars Piguet, Dwyane Wade is Hublot … But Jeremy is Harvard-educated, and he’s not going to do something flashy that’s just for the money.”
Lin became a superstar in the most nontraditional way possible, so it’s no surprise his approach to marketing would follow a similar path. He may be focused on being selective, but he’ll strike some sort of deal sooner or later. Nobody — especially a smart kid from Harvard — would leave that much money on the table.
