284: Chapter 122: The Possibility of Completely Surpassing Michael (Seeking Monthly Votes!)_4 284: Chapter 122: The Possibility of Completely Surpassing Michael (Seeking Monthly Votes!)_4 Todd spoke up, “In fact, this is why we invited you to the meeting, Roger.
I think we need to hear this guy out together.”
“I agree, and Linda, could I get a cup of coffee, please?” Roger smiled at his assistant Curis, who was always present at these meetings, making him quite familiar with her.
Larry Miller immediately went to the whiteboard in the conference room and began to share his thoughts:
“First off, after the brand becomes independent, we should name the sneakers the Roger series.
Just like with Jordan, using the name is the best way to raise brand awareness.”
Todd disagreed, “Who among basketball fans doesn’t know that Roger is The Truth and The Truth is Roger?
I think ‘The Truth’ is a very special name and would be great for naming the sneakers.”
“That’s exactly the problem!” Larry Miller seemed to have been waiting for Todd to say this and smiled triumphantly.
“Look, before AJ, who in their right mind would go strolling around the streets in basketball shoes?
If young people don’t own a pair of AJs, they’re embarrassed to go to a female classmate’s party.
AJs aren’t just basketball shoes; they’re a fashion item, and that’s why they’re popular!
Have you seen women wearing AJs with black stockings, but have you ever seen anyone wearing The Truth III with black stockings?
We can’t focus on just the basketball market!
Those who watch the games know The Truth is Roger, but those who don’t watch may not know.
If you use The Truth to name them, consumers might think it’s just some no-name brand.”
Roger nodded, “You’re right, though these things are known worldwide, still no one can replicate AJ’s glory.
How do you plan on making my sneakers into a fashion item?”
Everything hinges on the shoe design!
Reebok’s designers from all sectors can come to me and sign up to join the Roger brand design team.
But first, they must pass a selection process, because I only want the elite.
I absolutely will not accept any garbage.
I have good private relationships with many designers who formerly worked for Nike, and I believe they would be willing to follow my lead.”
For the next hour, Larry Miller elaborated on how to build and strengthen Roger’s personal brand.
It was clear that he came prepared.
In fact, Larry Miller had done plenty of homework and planning to become the president of the Jordan brand.
Now that Nike no longer needed him, he could apply all that preparation to Reebok.
However, he also spoke bluntly, “But all our ideas hinge on the strength of your personal influence, Roger.
Thus, maintaining your pressure on Michael is the key to everything.”
Roger calmly took a sip of coffee, “That’s the least of your worries.”
After the meeting ended, Todd personally escorted Roger to the hotel.
During the drive, he asked Roger for his opinion, “What do you think of him?”
“We can give it a try.
He was deeply involved in the operations of Nike’s basketball division and has a track record of success.”
“So, about our contract…”
“There are two years left, Todd.
Upon arriving at the hotel, the driver informed Roger, “Sir, the assistant named Linda from the meeting left her phone number with me and insisted I give it to you.
She also asked if you would be available to meet her alone, saying she’s not only good at making coffee but also knows some Thai massage.”
Without looking back, Roger waved his hand dismissively, “Tell Linda I’ve been busy learning French lately.”
Back at the hotel, Roger turned on the TV and watched the advertisement for his own The Truth III sneakers, deep in thought.
To truly surpass Jordan, he would have to be able to compete with him in the business world too.
And in this history, Larry Miller, who was meant to be the president of the Jordan brand, ended up moving to Reebok by some twist of fate, which just might be the start of a butterfly effect.
But Larry Miller was right: maintaining pressure on Michael is indeed the key to everything.
Roger had to meet this condition to avoid becoming just a poor shadow under Michael Jordan’s radiant glory like so many other stars in the original history!
The possibility of completely surpassing Michael was growing!
Larry Miller officially joins the Reebok team!
The heaviest transfer in the sporting goods industry!?
— “The New York Times.”
Shaquille O’Neal is set to return in the Christmas Day game, and the defending champions are about to show their full strength!
— “Orlando Sentinel.”
French model Laetitia Casta and Roger were seen together in multiple attractions, including Disneyland.
What exactly is their relationship?
There’s nothing you can’t vote on, so make your guess!
— “Orlando Sentinel.”
Without a doubt, Roger is currently the greatest player in the world.
Michael’s reign is clearly faltering, which is obvious to everyone.
Didn’t I say this last week?
Buddy, last week I wasn’t allowed to speak the truth.
— Larry Miller in an interview with “USA Today.”
Let me emphasize once more, one-on-one, Roger is no match for me.
— Jerry Stackhouse, after scoring 36 points and leading his team to victory over the Phoenix Suns, told reporters.