Who is the actor in the Sprite ad?
Uncovering the story behind the latest face of Sprite
(By Carmichael Phillip)
Sprite’s latest ad campaigns have featured standout personalities — notably NBA sensation Anthony Edwards — whose charisma and athleticism blend seamlessly with Sprite’s “Obey Your Thirst” energy. Across multiple campaigns, Edwards appears as both athlete and holiday hero, most memorably as “Anta Claus”.
Introducing Anthony “Anta Claus” Edwards
Anthony Edwards, current guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, became Sprite’s featured face in late 2024. Under the playful persona “Anta Claus”, he stars in the whimsical “T’was the Night Before Spritemas” campaign: magically shooting Winter Spiced Cranberry Sprite packs down chimneys, using a dropping sports car instead of a sleigh — accompanied by Spritemas-themed “wolfdeer” — all backed by a hip‑hop remix narrated by rapper Monaleo.
This one-minute spot aired prominently during the 2024 Christmas Day NBA game between the Timberwolves and Mavericks.
Obey Your Thirst 2024: Anthony Edwards & Grant Hill
Sprite revived its iconic “Obey Your Thirst” slogan in 2024, starring Edwards alongside NBA legend Grant Hill. The campaign, developed in collaboration with DesignRush and Sprite’s marketing team, presented Edwards recreating early 1990s spots — celebrating self‑expression, individuality, and hip‑hop roots.
The campaign also included Olympic sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, but it was Edwards’s dynamic chemistry with Grant Hill that took center stage.
Sprite’s Athletic Legacy
Anthony Edwards wasn’t Sprite’s first athlete actor. Previously, NBA and NCAA legends like Grant Hill starred in earlier “Obey Your Thirst” ads. In 2025 Sprite also launched a “Lock In” campaign featuring Edwards and NBA Hall‑of‑Famer Kevin Garnett, captured in a candid, film‑style conversation in a G‑Wagon — minimal brand visuals, maximum authenticity.
These efforts showcase Sprite’s continued alignment with athletic icons and the synergy between sports, music, and culture.
Why Anthony Edwards?
Fresh, authentic energy: Known for electrifying dunks and candor, Edwards’ personality embodies Sprite’s “Obey Your Thirst” ethos — bold, unapologetic, and natural .
Crossover appeal: His presence resonates beyond basketball — crossing into fashion, music, and digital media, especially with Olympic participation.
Hip‑hop synergy: Sprite continues embracing hip‑hop culture — Edwards and Monaleo’s collaboration connects athleticism and street‑savvy flair.
Examples of Edwards in Sprite Ads
‘Twas the Night Before Spritemas: Edwards transforms into “Anta Claus,” delivering animated holiday magic and embodying youthful energy.
Obey Your Thirst Reboot: Revisits the brand’s 1994 slogan with modern flair, featuring Edwards and Hill, drawing on nostalgia and current flair.
Lock In: Social‑first campaign with Kevin Garnett, emphasizing genuine conversations and less overt branding.
Impact & Reception
Marketing and sports outlets have praised the Sprite–Edwards partnership:
SI.com: Describes Edwards as “one of the most authentic NBA superstars” and highlights Sprite’s partnership as a natural fit.
MarketingDive: Observed that Sprite’s “Obey Your Thirst” revival resonated with Gen‑Z culture by combining hip‑hop, athlete energy, and holiday tradition.
Sports Business Journal: Called the Edwards–Garnett ad “epic” and noted the ongoing creative momentum between Sprite and Edwards.
Behind‑the‑Scenes Creative Team
Campaigns spearheaded by Sprite’s A.P. Chaney (Senior Creative Director) and produced by teams including Majority and Wieden+Kennedy New York. DesignRush and MarketingDive note the authenticity and cultural relevance engineered into these ads.
What’s Next for Sprite & Edwards?
Sprite isn’t slowing down: expect more athlete-focused campaigns and possibly fresh holiday spins. The partnership may evolve into digital activations like “Obey Days” QR code experiences, packaging tie-ins, and live activations like the Wolfdeer themed Spritemas events.
Conclusion
The actor at the heart of Sprite’s recent campaigns? NBA’s Anthony Edwards — athletic powerhouse, cultural connector, and brand ambassador. Whether dunking holiday 12‑packs or speaking candidly with NBA legends, he’s given Sprite a revitalized voice — authentic, bold, youthful, and deeply in tune with hip‑hop culture.
For Sprite fans seeking star power, humor, and fresh energy, Anthony Edwards is the face — and the thirst — to obey.
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