Panini America has hit the jackpot by sealing a multi-year, exclusive pact with Vernell Brown III, the highly acclaimed high school football sensation, also acknowledged as “VB3.” Hailing from Jones High School in Orlando, the four-star recruit and top wide receiver has garnered attention nationwide for his exceptional skills on the field.
Stepping into the limelight, Brown has demonstrated remarkable prowess, particularly evident in his stellar performance last season. With an impressive record of 70 receptions for 1,363 yards and 10 touchdowns, the young athlete has set the bar high for his competitors. In the ongoing 2024 season, Brown continues to shine, boasting 51 catches for 664 yards and four touchdowns.
The recent commitment by Brown to play for the University of Florida has further solidified his position as a rising star in the football realm. This affiliation with the university opens up endless opportunities for Brown, particularly with Panini America, as he gears up to feature prominently in their collegiate product lines and marketing endeavors.
Rubbing shoulders with a roster of exceptional young talents like Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, Dylan Raiola, Arch Manning, Julian Sayin, and Zachariah Branch, Vernell Brown III is poised to make a significant impact at the collegiate level. Jason Howarth, the Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations at Panini America, exudes confidence in Brown’s potential, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the partnership. According to Howarth, “VB3 is on track to be a dynamic player, and we’re excited to feature him in our collegiate collections and campaigns.”
The collaboration between Brown and Panini America also falls in line with the company’s strategic expansion within the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) domain. The recent introduction of Panini College has opened doors for athletes from partner universities to have their own personalized trading cards. Initially launched at Ohio State, Nebraska, and Texas, this initiative is set to expand further, providing more athletes with the opportunity to shine through their exclusive trading cards.
Expressing his jubilation over the partnership, Vernell Brown III shared his sentiments, remarking, “Partnering with Panini is a dream come true. Growing up, I always imagined having my own trading card, and now that it’s a reality, it feels incredibly special.” With this significant collaboration, Brown is poised to leave an indelible mark on the football landscape, both at the collegiate level and beyond.
