• by Aaron Baar , June 15, 2011

Shaquille O'Neal may have just completed his basketball career, but the endorsement deals are still coming in.

IGo, a maker of rechargeable batteries and headphones, has enlisted the former NBA All-Star as its corporate spokesman. He will appear in the company's marketing and advertising campaigns, including print and television advertising, packaging and in-store and online promotions for the brand.

"Shaq is one of the most talked-about personalities right now," says Walter Thornton, vice president of product management and supply chain. "People want to know what he is doing and what he cares about. He has been using iGo products for years and now that he has more time on his hands after his retirement, he wants to help us get the word out."

Shaq's first duty will be to help launch the company's new iGo Green Rechargable Alkaline batteries and iGo-branded headphones that will be available nationwide this summer, Thornton says. Shaq had apparently used the product for years as a "frequent traveler," according to Thornton.

"While Shaquille is recognized worldwide for his athletic skills, he is also known for championing products that deliver value, durability and functionality," Thornton says. "This makes him the ideal person to help us get the word out and bring increased recognition for iGo in the mobile accessory marketplace."

The deal marks the first time iGo has employed a celebrity of any sort for its product marketing. "As we launched the new line of iGo Green Rechargeable Alkaline Batteries and iGo-branded headphones, we knew that we needed someone to help drive the message home about the quality and affordability of our products," Thornton says. "Who better to do that than someone like Shaq who has made such a big presence on and off the court?"