An NBA Draft Campaign Rooted in Family and Culture

Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, Athletes Endorse brought together Gallaudet University and first-round pick Carter Bryant for a powerful, story-driven campaign rooted in family, identity and community.

With personal ties to Gallaudet — his maternal grandparents are Deaf alumni and his grandfather, Michael “Doc” Torres, played on the university’s basketball team — Carter’s story was uniquely positioned to amplify Gallaudet’s mission. Athletes Endorse led the collaboration from start to finish, advising on campaign strategy, content development, scheduling, location planning and brand messaging to ensure authenticity and impact.

The result: a heartfelt launch on the morning of the NBA Draft that resonated deeply across audiences, throughout the NBA community and particularly as a statement of representation within the Deaf community. 

Within days, the campaign surpassed 3 million views across Instagram Reels and TikTok. Also, the official NBA Instagram account added a positive comment to the video post, which is uncommon.

Gallaudet University, Carter Bryant and his family were thrilled. 

Carter’s agent at Wasserman, an Athletes Endorse partner, was also appreciative.

Athletes Endorse is grateful to have played a role in bringing this exciting and heartfelt collaboration together.

Read more on the Gallaudet website.

Athletes Endorse launches to help brands create athlete partnerships that engage and excite fans.

See the press release.