Wisconsin-based American Family Insurance has signed Thunder F Kevin Durant and Texans DE J.J. Watt "as its new 'brand ambassadors,'" according to Rick Romell of the MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL. Seahawks QB Russell Wilson "has represented American Family for the last two years, but the contract expired on Dec. 31." Durant is "one of the brightest stars in the NBA, and is more widely recognized than Wilson." Data from N.Y.-based Marketing Evaluations shows that not only do "more sports fans know who Durant is," but also a "higher percentage describe him as one of their favorite personalities." Meanwhile, Watt, like Wilson, played collegiately at Wisconsin. American Family Media Relations Dir Ken Muth said, "We feel good about both Kevin and J.J. I think they both have great stories to tell about really identifying and going after their dreams, about supporting their communities. They're genuine, they're authentic." Muth did not disclose financial details, but said the company is looking at "all sorts of marketing opportunities, including commercials" (MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL, 1/27).
