2011 NBA rookie of the year Blake Griffin and new Kia Optima were on hand during the NBA All Star Weekend in LA, as well as the crowd pleasing Slam Dunk competition.
The new NBA superstar lined up to take slam-dunks over the hood of the completely redesigned Optima, which you can jump into at Bald Hill Kia, located at 1021 Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI, 02886.
"People are coming up to me and saying, 'We loved when you jumped over the car.' To me, basketball is more than a dunk contest," Griffin said in a phone interview. 1
Michael Sprague, Kia's US marketing's chief, speaks of Griffin hardworking, and youthful attitude, and that says that he "represents the future of the NBA." With Griffin being recognized as a rising star, Sprague hopes Kia will be seen in a similar way. The auto maker is already well-known for it's fuel efficient and sporty vehicles, along with attracting a youthful audience. 2
"Being named rookie of the year has helped build his awareness," Sprague adds. Griffin made the rounds on TV shows such as ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live, gaining a wider audience and name recognition, even though people "know him as the guy who jumped over the car."3
Kia already has a partnership with the L.A. Clippers, and was more than happy to have their new vehicle represented in the All Star Game. This past season, the Clippers continued to emerge from under L.A.'s other famous NBA team, Kobe and the Lakers.
Source: 1,2,3http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2011-06-21-nba-kia_n.htm