• by Steve Ellwanger , April 14, 2023

Not everyone gets to turn down “Shark Tank” star Mark Cuban when he pitches two zany business concepts—but pro basketball player Arike Ogunbowale is up to the task in the latest iteration of State Farm’s “What If” brand platform.

“What If” aims to reassure people that they can rely on State Farm’s customized insurance plans regardless of what paths they choose to pursue.

In this “What If Baller” spot from the Translation agency, Ogunbowale—who plays for the Dallas Wings of the Women's National Basketball Association—turns the table on Cuban as she steps away from the court and into the business world.

It opens with Cuban explaining his idea for a fast food called “Mark’s Cubans,” which are Cuban sandwiches bearing his likeness.

He even offers Ogunbowale a majority stake in the venture, but she’s less than impressed.

“It’s a pass,” she says.

Then Cuban pulls up a pant leg to reveal a long red sock also bearing his face.

He calls the tube sock idea “Mark Tube-ans.”

Ogunbowale responds with a “Nope.”

The campaign is designed to address “What If” situations or potential outcomes of adult life—from changing careers, to starting a new business, to buying a house or car, according to State Farm vice president of marketing Alyson Griffin.

Other WNBA and National Basketball Association notables will be pitching in as well.

“Fans will see some familiar faces and some new stars, all pondering career ‘what ifs’ in each of the spots,” Griffin tells Marketing Daily.

In addition to online video and social media platforms, campaign spots will appear on linear television networks including CBS, TBS, TNT, TruTV and ESPN2.