Re2pect: How Companies Honored Derek Jeter's Grand Farewell
Derek Jeter wrapped up his legendary 20-year career with the New York Yankees in fitting fashion. Following a blown lead in the top of the 9th inning, Jeter came up to bat one last time.
On the first pitch he saw, the shortstop went opposite field -- something he has become known for -- scoring the base runner from second. It was his seventh career walk-off hit, and turned his teary eyes dry for a few moments of jubilation.
Since announcing earlier this year his intentions to retire, a number of entities have given tribute to the five-time World Series champion. During Thursday night's game, #Re2pect was one of the top trends on both Twitter and Facebook.
So, how have companies honored Jeter?
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Nike Inc (NYSE: NKE)
Nike and its Jordan brand released a 90-second commercial earlier this summer.
The spot features numerous athletes, celebrities and fans tipping their cap to Jeter, who is a long-time endorser of Nike. He signed a one-year, $12-million deal before the 2014 season.
Gatorade
Later on in the summer, the sports-drink giant released its own 90-second tribute to the Yankee legend.
This spot sees Jeter walking down New York City on his way to Yankee Stadium. Along the way, he greets numerous fans and Yankee employees. Frank Sinatra's infamous "My Way" crescendos as the spot goes on.
Sinatra's version of "New York, New York" has been a Yankee Stadium end-of-game staple for numerous years.
Darren Rovell, ESPN's business expert, shared his thoughts:
Winner of the Rotating Signage Luck Of The Year Award goes to...AT&T. pic.twitter.com/xBW5QHH7xd
— darren rovell (@darrenrovell) September 26, 2014
Uber
The mobile-taxi service even found a way to jump on the farewell train; Users of Uber in New York City would see Jeter's No. 2 on nearby drivers.
Open the app and tip your cap. #FarewellCaptain pic.twitter.com/33DAPsN82q
— Uber NYC (@Uber_NYC) September 25, 2014
LeBron James
Perhaps the most popular athlete in the world, respect is not lost on Lebron James. The NBA superstar has always claimed to be a big Yankee fan since he was a kid, and he used his Instagram account to honor Jeter.
Family
Derek Jeter's toddler nephew, Jalen, paid maybe the most heart-warming tribute. As Jeter and the Yankees walk-off celebration came to a close, cameras caught Jalen tipping his cap to his 40-year-old uncle.
Regarded as one of the ultimate signs of respect in the sporting world, it was one of many fitting conclusions to Derek Jeter's baseball career.
Jalen stole the show: https://t.co/ZPVO48vDNM #FarewellCaptain
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) September 26, 2014
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