Zeta Live 2026 · Thought Leaders
Beyond the Game: The New Athlete-Brand Partnership
About the session
Athletes have always shaped culture and influenced consumers. What’s changing is the role they play: today’s athletes are building their own brands, businesses, audiences, and platforms—and choosing partners that align with what they stand for. Hear how marketers can move beyond traditional endorsements to build authentic partnerships rooted in shared values, cultural relevance, and genuine connection with audiences.
Speakers
Chip Paucek
Co-Founder & CEO, Pro Athlete Community
Patrice Evra
Entrepreneur, Investor, & Former Captain of Manchester United and France, ILTG
Tendai "The Beast" Mtawarira
Chairman, The Beast Foundation
Jay Williams
Host, Investor & Founder, ESPN
Ndamukong Suh
Super Bowl Champion, Entrepreneur & Investor, House of Spears Management, LLC
Jené Elzie
President, Seven Springs Global Advisors
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