In what might be considered a quirky crossover between sports and pop culture, Everett-based company Funko has released a figurine that immortalizes Flavor Flav in his role as Team USA's women's water polo supporter. KING5 reported that the company announced the new Pop! vinyl figure this Friday, portraying Flavor Flav donning a USA water polo cap and wielding a water polo ball.
Y’all are wondering how ya can support athletes who need help,,, Sales are gonna directly benefit my water polo playerz,!!!
— FLAVOR FLAV (@FlavorFlav) August 9, 2024
👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾 https://t.co/Xneub5dAKr
The figurine stands four inches tall and exhibits a patriotic red, white, and blue ensemble, mirroring the hip-hop artist's attire at the Olympic Games in Paris. It's a nod to Flavor Flav—who has been the living embodiment of a "hype man" for the water polo team—commemorating his presence at the matches with his characteristic energy and enthusiasm. NBC Bay Area discloses that the sales will benefit the water polo team, with pre-orders open until August 16 and shipping expected in December.
Not to overlook a single detail, the Funko figure includes Flavor Flav’s identifiable clock necklace and sunglasses, along with the aforementioned water polo elements. This partnership is tied to a broader initiative; Earlier this summer, Flavor Flav inked a five-year sponsorship deal with USA Water Polo, providing financial contributions to aid athletes who face economic challenges. "Supporting USA Water Polo teams is an honor," Flavor Flav told USA Water Polo, highlighting the significance of drawing attention to less-recognized sports.
Funko, which has made a brand out of miniature representations of cultural icons, sees this as a chance to meld fandom with philanthropy. Billboard noted the collectible's patriotic aesthetic, which includes a basketball jersey, which should have been a water polo jersey, and though not mentioned, likely rounds out the figure's look with white pants and sneakers. Alongside the merchandise, Funko promises a donation to the United States water polo team, though the amount has not been publicly disclosed. Interested supporters can secure their own piece of the 2024 Paris Olympics by visiting Funko's website for pre-ordering information.
