Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown recently unveiled his latest business venture: a new sneaker and apparel company called 741. The launch coincides with the debut of his flagship shoe, the “Rover,” which Brown has been showcasing during training camp. After years of being a sneaker free agent and having public disagreements with Nike, Brown is now taking full control of his destiny through 741.
Brown spoke about his decision to start this new venture after Celtics practice, jokingly attributing it to boredom. However, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP revealed his deeper motivation: inspiring athletes to explore their options and create their own paths. “I just hope guys realize they have other options,” Brown said. “I was getting bored of seeing the same old thing.”
This isn’t Brown’s first foray into the world of apparel. Through his 7uice Brand, Brown has been disrupting the traditional corporate landscape, encouraging athletes to break free from the limitations of big brands. “I want guys to have the courage to start and build something on their own,” he said. Brown also hinted at possibly turning his entrepreneurial journey into a documentary, hoping to share the lessons and challenges he’s faced along the way.
Brown, who led the Celtics to an NBA championship earlier this year and was named Finals MVP, officially announced 741 on social media and during the Celtics’ Media Day. The name “741” carries personal meaning, with each number symbolizing “spiritual awakening, hard work, and new beginnings.”
Brown turned down over $50 million in endorsement deals to fully own and control his brand. He emphasized the importance of ownership, especially for the next generation of athletes. “It’s time to think different and be different … It’s time to create more value for everyone involved, from athletes to consumers to employees and the communities that support them,” Brown stated in a press release.
The “Rover” sneakers are currently available for pre-order on 741’s official website, with products set to launch on October 22, the same day the Celtics open their season against the Knicks. Priced at $200 for men’s sizes and $70 for kids, the Rover features high-performance technology, such as abrasion-resistant yarns for added durability and flexibility.
Brown has been a free agent in the sneaker market since 2021, primarily wearing Nike shoes but being vocal about his criticism of the brand. This dissatisfaction, particularly regarding his exclusion from Team USA’s 2024 Olympic roster, played a significant role in his decision to launch 741.
“741 is more than just a sneaker brand—it’s a statement about independence, creativity, and ownership,” Brown explained. His vision for 741 goes beyond sneakers; it’s about empowering athletes to take control of their careers and futures.
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