PRESS RELEASE_________

The Jeep® brand and USA Basketball announced their partnership today as the Jeep Wrangler was named the “Official Vehicle of USA Basketball.” The Jeep brand formed a global partnership with USA Basketball to support the men’s and women’s national teams. Accordingly, the Jeep brand will launch a full advertising and marketing campaign scheduled to begin Saturday, April 28. The Jeep brand also announced the introduction of a uniquely designed special edition model, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude Edition, which will be featured in the campaign.

“Each member of the USA Basketball team embodies inner strength, passion, a drive to win and a true sense of dedication they use to not only represent their team, but also their country,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The Jeep brand is proud to be on the same team as these talented men and women. Both symbolize American pride, a strong history, a humble spirit, integrity, courage and leadership.”

“We are proud to have the Jeep brand’s support of USA Basketball as we prepare to represent our country both on and off the court this summer,” said Jerry Colangelo, USA Basketball Chairman. “The defining characteristics of these two American brands make the affiliation feel natural, and the strategic buildup of USA Basketball-themed events, along with the comprehensive advertising and marketing campaign, will put the Jeep brand top of mind with sports fans around the world.”

The Jeep brand also named 2012 USA Basketball finalist and 2008 team member, Chris Paul, as its spokesman for this partnership. In this role, Paul will be featured in the Jeep brand’s advertising campaign and appear in a series of video vignettes that will give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at various facets of the partnership with USA Basketball.

“Like all Jeep brand vehicles, Chris Paul defines the meaning of true athleticism and capability; we greatly admire his philanthropic efforts and dedication to giving back to the community. His altruistic nature, compassion and drive perfectly aligns with the Jeep brand values and makes him a great fit for this initiative,” said Manley.

“The Jeep brand has always been associated with the American spirit and as a member of the 2012 USA Men’s Basketball National Team, I am proud to serve as spokesman for Jeep’s partnership with USA Basketball,” stated Chris Paul. “The concept of the ‘Power Within’ is evidenced in my everyday life, both on and off the court. It will be that power that will energize USA Basketball and Jeep to maximize this global partnership in support of the Men’s and Women’s National Teams.”

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Read more on the Jeep press release.