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Jordan Brand Rolls out Moving 'RE2PECT' Tribute for Derek Jeter

Dan Carson@@DrCarson73X.com LogoTrending Lead WriterJuly 14, 2014

Jordan Brand released a new, star-studded tribute on Monday to pay homage to Derek Jeter, one of the company’s longest sponsored athletes. 

Titled “RE2PECT,” the spot shows a veritable army of athletes, coaches and pop culture icons tipping their caps to the 40-year-old New York Yankee, who will retire this year after wrapping up his 20th season in the MLB

Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan and Jay Z are just a few of the many familiar faces paying tribute to the Yankees captain in the ad. Phil Jackson, Jeanie Buss, Carmelo Anthony and Billy Crystal also show their respect in the video, which is guaranteed to leave more than one Yankees fan misty-eyed. 

The best part of this ad might be the grudging acknowledgements of Jeter’s success. Boston bros with no love for the Yankees tip their hats, and Mr. Met might have to go into witness protection after doffing his cap for Jeter.

It’s a moving tribute for a guy who made it through baseball’s most turbulent era without an arrest or a PED scandal. This is Nike’s official salute to Jeter, whose legacy with the company is second only to its titular namesake.

Jeter became the first Jordan Brand-endorsed baseball player after signing with the company in 1999. He has 12 signature cleats to his name—more shoes than any other athlete besides Jordan, per Nike's official site.

The ad will make its television debut Tuesday night, during Jeter’s final All-Star Game.

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