In a move to hype up the NBA Playoffs which launched last Saturday, Translation, along with director Felix Brady, has brought the comedic genius of Chris Rock to the forefront in their latest spots.
Rock’s unmistakable voice adds a layer of excitement and humor to the narrative as he amusingly questions whether “Playoff Mode” truly exists—the elevated state players reach to excel under postseason pressure. Spoiler alert: It definitely does, except maybe for the Pistons. Better luck next year!
Featuring a star-studded lineup of NBA players including Nikola Jokić, Jayson Tatum, Jalen Brunson, Anthony Edwards, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell, and Jalen Williams, the promos promise a thrilling playoff season ahead. But that’s not all; keep an eye out for appearances by Shaq, Lil Wayne, Guy Fieri, Anuel AA, Mike Andrews, and more. Watch below:
REELated:
“When developing campaigns, we lean into research to determine what will resonate with our fans and the data shows that our fans consume the NBA differently at various times over the course of the season, so our methods of reaching them must change, too,” says NBA CMO Tammy Henault. “During this time of year, we know our core fans are watching, but we also see an increase in engagement with our more casual fans and those which we call ‘opportunity audiences.'”
Taking a lighthearted approach to spoofing the idea of “Playoff Mode,” the campaign aims to engage both hardcore and casual fans alike. With countless viral playoff moments in NBA history, the creative invites fans to tune in this season to witness whose Playoff alter-ego will reign supreme.
The shoot, which took place during the All-Star Game, featured Shaq playing Taylor Swift tunes on his phone to keep the atmosphere light—an unexpected yet fitting choice that adds to the campaign’s playful vibe.
With Rock at the helm and a lineup of basketball legends and cultural icons, the NBA Playoffs are set to be an unforgettable experience for fans everywhere. So, as Shaq would say, crank it up and get ready for an epic showdown on the court!
Go Sixers!
Follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram
