Yesterday, the Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark made her highly anticipated debut on the newly designed floor at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. While it was a loss and Clark only scored 9 points, Caitlin and other WNBA draft picks represent a new level of player and fandom for the sport. And with fandom comes endorsements. Now Clark has joined the ranks of Michael Jordan, Mia Hamm, Dwayne Wade, Peyton Manning, Serena Williams, Kevin Durant, Vince Carter, Derek Jeter, Bryce Harper and more to endorse Gatorade.
For decades the iconic sports brand has been synonymous with athletic excellence and determination. So, it got me thinking about how all Gatorade commercials have captured the spirit of sportsmanship, resilience, and the drive to achieve greatness. While with any brand some are forgettable, Gatorade has time and time again released spots that sometimes reach a Nike level.
Today, we rank the 10 best Gatorade commercials that have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Here are our GOATS:
1. “Be Like Mike” (1992)
Arguably the most iconic Gatorade commercial of all time, “Be Like Mike” featured basketball legend Michael Jordan. The ad’s catchy jingle and inspirational footage of Jordan both on and off the court resonated with fans, making it a cultural phenomenon.
The simplicity and charm of the ad created an aspirational message that still endures. Like McDonald’s Big Mac theme, the jingle always finds a way of reinventing itself every five years or so. Agency: Bayer Bess Vanderwarker
2. “23 vs. 39” (2009)
This memorable spot featured a hypothetical one-on-one basketball game between a young Michael Jordan and his older self. Using advanced digital effects, the commercial highlighted Jordan’s timeless talent and competitive spirit, emphasizing that greatness is ageless. The innovative concept and execution made it a standout in sports advertising. Agency: Element 79
3. “Mike vs. Mia” (1997)
The “Mike vs. Mia” Gatorade commercial is a legendary ad that pits two sports icons, Michael Jordan and soccer superstar, Mia Hamm, against each other in a playful yet intense showdown of athletic prowess. Set to the energetic tune of Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better, the commercial showcases a series of competitive events where Jordan and Hamm try to outdo each other, from basketball and soccer to track and field.
This spirited competition highlights not only their incredible skills but also the fun and determination that define Gatorade’s brand. The ad captures the essence of pushing limits and the drive to excel, resonating with athletes and fans alike. Agency: FCB Chicago
4. “The Secret to Victory” (2017)
This powerful commercial showcased top athletes such as Serena Williams, Michael Jordan, and Peyton Manning, sharing their moments of defeat and how they overcame them. The message was clear: true champions use their losses as motivation to achieve greater success. The emotional and motivational tone struck a chord with athletes and fans alike. Agency: TBWA\Chiat\Day
5. “Raptor v Raptor” (1999)
In a thrilling and tongue-in-cheek ad, “Raptor vs. Raptor” featured NBA star Vince Carter of the Toronto Raptors facing off against a velociraptor in a series of basketball challenges. Working with Lucasfilm and Jurassic Park creators, the commercial cleverly blended CGI effects with live-action to create an entertaining and memorable showdown, highlighting Gatorade Fierce’s role in fueling extraordinary performance. Agency: FCB Chicago
6. “Action Figures” (2001)
“Action Figures” commercial is a nostalgic and dynamic ad that brings to life the power and energy of Gatorade through a playful yet impactful narrative. The commercial features animated action figures of famous athletes, including Mia Hamm, Michael Jordan, Peyton Manning, and Derek Jeteer, each depicted in their iconic athletic gear.
As these figures come to life in a toy store, they engage in an epic battle on a foosball table, fueled by Gatorade. The commercial brilliantly merges childhood nostalgia with athletic excellence, creating a memorable and engaging experience for viewers. Agency: FCB Chicago
REELated:
7. “The Heart of a Lio” (2018)
This animated commercial told the story of soccer superstar Lionel Messi’s rise from a young boy with a growth hormone deficiency to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time. The ad’s emotional narrative and stunning animation effectively conveyed the themes of perseverance and triumph, aligning perfectly with Gatorade’s brand ethos. Agency: TBWA\Chiat\Day
8. “Colts vs Lions” (2000)
Featuring a voiceover by rapper and actor Common, this commercial highlighted the internal drive and mental toughness that athletes need to succeed. The spot showcased various sports and athletes, reinforcing the message that true victory comes from within. The poetic narration and dynamic visuals made it an inspiring and memorable piece. Agency: FCB Chicago
9. “Sweat It to Get It” (2014)
This fun ad campaign featured Cam Newton and NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns surprising gym-goers and athletes with the challenge that they must “sweat” to earn their Gatorade in a convenience store managed by Peyton Manning. The playful tone and celebrity cameos made it a fun and engaging commercial that reinforced Gatorade’s connection to hard work and physical effort. Agency: TBWA\Chiat\Day
10. “Nightmares” (2013)
The Gatorade TV spot titled “Nightmares” features NBA superstars Kevin Durant and Dwyane Wade in a gripping narrative about the relentless pursuit of excellence. In the commercial, Durant is haunted by a recurring nightmare where Wade blocks his shot during a pivotal game moment. This unsettling dream motivates Durant to push himself harder in his training, with Gatorade playing a crucial role in his regimen, providing the hydration and energy he needs to elevate his performance. Agency: TBWA\Chiat\Day
Gatorade’s commercials have consistently celebrated athletic prowess, resilience, and the human spirit. From nostalgic tributes to groundbreaking animations and emotional narratives, these ads have not only promoted the brand but also inspired generations of athletes and fans.
As Gatorade continues to evolve, its commercials will undoubtedly keep pushing the boundaries of creativity and motivation. We’ll also be looking for one of Caitlin Clark’s spots to hit this list one day.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram
Colin Costello is the West Coast Editor of Reel 360. Contact him at colin@reel360.com or follow him on X at @colinthewriter1