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By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief
NBA MVP and Boston Celtics champion Jaylen Brown has made a bold move, launching his own performance brand, 741, and turning down over $50 million in endorsement deals from major sneaker companies to do so. With a commitment to full ownership, creative control, and empowerment, 741 marks a significant shift in the athlete endorsement model, aiming to revolutionize the sneaker and apparel industry.
741 is now available for pre-order at 741performance.com, with products set to hit the market on October 22, 2024.
The name 741 holds deep personal significance for Brown, reflecting his connection to the numbers 7, 4, and 1, which have appeared frequently throughout his life. These numbers represent spiritual awakening, hard work, and new beginnings—values that align with his decision to step away from traditional endorsement deals and pursue a brand that reflects his vision. “741 is more than just a sneaker brand—it's a statement about independence, creativity, and ownership,” Brown explains.
With the launch of 741, Brown has set out to achieve four groundbreaking goals that will set a new standard for the industry:
Technologically advanced, performance-driven products: 741 will deliver high-quality, innovative designs with no compromises on functionality or style.
New economic model for endorsed athletes: Athletes who partner with 741 will receive more ownership and control over their personal brands, empowering them to shape their products and financial futures.
Accessibility for all households: 741 is committed to offering high-performance products at an affordable price, making premium sneakers available to families from all walks of life.
Career opportunities for underserved communities: 741 will provide career paths for aspiring professionals in design, engineering, sales, marketing, and more, helping to break down barriers and foster diversity in performance and fashion retail.
Brown’s decision to reject over $50 million in endorsement offers speaks to his belief in the importance of ownership and long-term value. “It’s time to think different and be different… create new ideas. It’s time to create more value for everyone involved, from athletes to consumers to employees and the communities that support them,” says Brown.
Brown’s inspiration for 741 also draws from his admiration for Kobe Bryant, who was preparing to launch his own independent sneaker line before his passing. “Kobe’s journey taught me about being fearless and pushing sports, along with society, to new heights. That’s the mindset I’m bringing to 741,” Brown shares, underscoring his mission to build a lasting legacy beyond his NBA career.
One of the key pillars of 741 is athlete empowerment. Brown plans to sign athletes directly to 741, offering them better financial terms and more creative freedom than traditional sneaker deals allow. This partnership model will give athletes the chance to shape their sneaker designs to fit their needs and style, all while retaining greater ownership of their brand and profits. “We want to shift the energy around how athletes engage with sneaker companies, focusing on true ownership and partnership,” Brown explains.
The creation of 741 has been a labor of love for Brown, who has spent the last two years learning from industry giants and gaining hands-on design experience, even collaborating with Yeezy. His commitment to excellence is reflected in the attention to detail and forward-thinking approach that defines 741’s sneakers and apparel. “I’ve poured everything into designing 741, and it’s been just as challenging and rewarding as anything I’ve done on the court,” says Brown.
Accessibility is also a cornerstone of 741’s mission, with a particular focus on providing affordable options for young people and underserved communities. Brown has set prices for big kid sizes at a rate 40% lower than competitors, ensuring that families can purchase high-quality, stylish sneakers without the financial burden. “I want 741 to be a brand that gives back and makes sure kids of all walks of life can have shoes they love, without the crazy price tags,” says Brown.
In addition to creating performance-driven products, Brown is committed to addressing the wealth gap by offering career opportunities to underrepresented communities. 741 will serve as a platform for emerging talent in areas like design, product development, marketing, and finance, providing exposure and long-term economic opportunities in industries where diversity has often been lacking.
With 741, Jaylen Brown is not just launching a brand—he’s creating a movement that champions independence, creativity, and ownership. By reshaping the traditional athlete endorsement model and offering affordable, high-performance products, 741 is poised to make a lasting impact on the sneaker industry and beyond.
As Brown’s journey continues, 741 stands as a testament to his vision for the future—one that encourages athletes, customers, and fans to take control of their own narrative, embrace innovation, and pursue their dreams on their own terms.
Explore 741’s futuristic website and pre-order your pair today at 741performance.com.