Bleacher Report and HBO Max have long been an industry leader in bringing fans closer to the athletes they love. In Fall 2024, we added star wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the video podcast roster with his show Cleats & Convos. Throughout the development process; I worked with producers, programmers, video operators, and fellow designers to ensure we provided Deebo with everything he needed for success on the Max streaming platform.

The development process consisted of creating and establishing a key art direction and identity that was true to Deebo’s character and voice. We wanted to highlight his versatility not only as a player, but as a host. We included elements of ‘flash and swag’ and mixed them with traditional football imagery. The final result was a success not only with Deebo and his team, but with advertisers as well.

My responsibility as the team’s Motion Designer was to integrate a continuation of the key art into the show’s intro, transition wipes, and any social assets as needed. I also worked with the producers and studio operators to make sure the show package was complete with monitor loops, lower thirds, and any full screen or overlay graphics.