Former professional wrestler turned entrepreneur, actor, father, and more decided to delve into the world of name, image, and likeness. Dwayne, The Rock, Johnson’s company ZOA Energy announced the inaugural class of The Rock’s Warriors.
The inaugural group includes Angel Reese (basketball, Louisiana State University), Hansel Emmanuel (basketball, Austin Peay State University), Brock Bowers (football, University of Georgia), Marvin Harrison Jr. (football, Ohio State University), Drake Maye (football, University of North Carolina), Kam Kinchens (football, University of Miami) and Amaya Gainer (softball, Florida A&M).
“Through this first-of-its-kind NIL expansion program, ZOA Energy will bring together some of the greatest college athletes of our time. I know from experience the grit and hard work that’s required of these college athletes to get the job done. Not just during their championship games or in the classrooms, but every day in the game of life. ZOA gives people that power, that unique energy to fuel themselves and fuel others around them – that’s why I’m super pumped about uniting all of The Rock’s Warriors under one roof,” said ZOA co-Founder and Chief Energy Officer, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. “I personally selected these phenomenal individuals because of the energy, tenacity, and excitement they bring to the game. With a diverse set of stories and experiences, they’re driven, hungry, talented, and ready for ZOA to help fuel them to greatness.”
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According to ZOA’s press release, the athletes will lead an upcoming marketing campaign for the brand and create content across social media platforms while also supporting national and regional retail partnerships and philanthropic events across the country on behalf of ZOA.
“I’m pumped to be a part of such a unique group of athletes, and who better than The Rock to bring us together for a one-of-a-kind opportunity,” said Angel Reese, women’s basketball player and reigning National Champion at Louisiana State University. “ZOA is all about putting in the work, learning from your wins and losses, and empowering others, something I strive to do every day on and off the court, so it was a no-brainer to join the first class of The Rock’s Warriors.”
More athlete-entrepreneurs should look into providing mentorship and brand partnerships with college and professional athletes. These athlete-entrepreneurs have a unique lens through which they view the world at large and the ecosystem of sport.
“While money certainly talks, the ability to engage with someone like Johnson–who has been successful as an athlete, actor and now entrepreneur–speaks louder. Other athlete-led companies should consider how they can authentically leverage the brain power and lived experiences of their leadership to facilitate meaningful NIL deals,” shared Alicia Jessop, a sports industry leader, attorney, journalist, and professor focused on promoting athlete, creator, and consumer well-being and women’s leadership in the sport and entertainment industries.