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CANTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 3, 2003--Whether he is "In Da Club" or asking "21 Questions," hip-hop phenom 50 Cent has made all the right moves. Today, he and Reebok announce another one: A long-term partnership that includes a signature collection of athletic footwear called the "G-Unit Collection by Rbk." The initial launch of the collection takes place this fall with a limited distribution. This will be followed with a major launch in early 2004.

The collection will feature clean, court-inspired designs that reflect 50 Cent's style and flavor. "Reebok's Rbk Collection is the real thing when it comes to connecting with street and hip-hop culture," says 50 Cent. "I want to be part of it and use my name and attitude to help influence the feel and vibe of the gear."

50 Cent and Reebok are currently developing an integrated marketing and advertising campaign to promote the "G-Unit Collection by Rbk." The initial marketing launch may include a special 50 Cent CD single with the purchase of the shoe for a limited time.

50 Cent will be debuting his signature Reebok kicks when he performs in a pair during the upcoming 2003 MTV Movie Awards. He will also promote the collection while on stage performing during this summer's "Rock The Mic" music tour co-sponsored by Reebok.

"Reebok's partnership with 50 Cent is the latest and perhaps the most groundbreaking fusion of sports and music, a formula that has been creating a great deal of heat and energy in the marketplace," says Micky Pant, Reebok's chief marketing officer. "50 Cent has earned his reputation as the hottest MC out right now and Reebok is excited to partner with an artist who has achieved his level of success in the music industry."

"The footwear we create with 50 Cent will meet the high standards and expectations of everyone involved," says Todd Krinsky, Reebok's vice president of Rbk. "We're excited to bring aspirational product to the marketplace that offers a hip-hop feel to complement its namesake."

Born Curtis Jackson, the Jamaica, Queens, New York native has long been recognized as one of the underground's best MCs. His debut album, "Get Rich or Die Tryin'," launched at No. 1 on the charts this past February and, after 16 weeks on the chart, it is currently ranked No. 5. His two hot singles, "21 Questions" and "In Da Club," are currently ranked No. 1 and No. 9 respectively on the Billboard chart.

50 Cent becomes only the second non-athlete to have a signature athletic footwear collection. Earlier this year, Jay-Z and Reebok formed an unprecedented partnership which includes the design and marketing of the "S. Carter Collection by Rbk," which launched at retail on April 18, 2003.