Verizon uses LeBron James to crush kids' dreams in latest spot

Generation Z has a better chance of becoming scientists or technologists than the next LeBron James.

When asked what they want to be when they grow up, the kids featured in Verizon's latest spot "#weneedmore" answer typically. They want to be pro-athletes, famous musicians or fashion models. None of them want one of the 9 million jobs in STEM fields, and to Verizon, that's a problem. To fix it, the company enlists the help of NBA great LeBron James, Victoria's Secret supermodel Adriana Lima, NFL quarterback Drew Brees and others in a 90-second spot from R/GA. These celebrities bluntly tell kids that the chances of them being famous are slim. But the chances to make a difference in science and technology are far greater. To help improve STEM's appeal, the brand launched Verizon Innovative Learning, an initiative that funds programs for nonprofits and schools to encourage today's youth to consider a different career.