ACES tells stories through its brand platform.
Our unique apparel, footwear, and lifestyle products are branded
with ACES iconic trademarks — which connect consumers with the stories we tell.

Brian Kortovich’s life has been defined by dreaming big and overcoming the odds.

Brian’s story began in his hometown of Cleveland where he had to overcome the death of his father at an early age. He used basketball as a conduit, intent on channeling his feelings of loss into feelings of hope. What began as a cathartic outlet, quickly became a life-long passion, propelling Brian around the world in search of a hoop and a great game. Brian played professionally in Kuwait, France, Israel, and the Dominican Republic, paving his way into the NBA D-League draft. He also had the opportunity to compete in pre-season camps with both the New York Knicks and New Jersey Nets.

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Ultimately, Brian’s game found a home in NYC, where he earned certified street cred by wreaking havoc in city leagues. At the famed EBC Rucker Park, he quickly became known as “Smokin’ Aces.” That’s where he won a scoring title in the summer of 2012, joining a storied list of legends including Dr. J, Joe “The Destroyer” Hammond and Kevin Durant. Brian’s reputation and skills led him to represent celebrated brands, including AND1, whom he toured with across the US, giving back and, empowering young people to command their own life story through hard work and perseverance.

 

Rob’s career has been shaped by experience at top brands including Reebok (tech,  production and footwear development in US and Asia), adidas (Head of Worldwide Basketball business unit), Vans (Director of Footwear Development), and1 (Executive Brand Director and Brand President), Hoka One (Director of Footwear), and Algenesis Materials (EVP of Products). He has expertise in product development, sourcing, manufacturing, and quality assurance. 

  

 

Stephen is an entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience working in media, technology, and startups. His experience at established (Beacon, Hearst, Dennis Publishing) and early stage (Brand ACES, Swag’r, Bringhub) companies has shaped his abilities to drive growth, change, and operational efficiency that result in increased ROI for investors and partners. Since 2012, he has personally driven more than $40 million of deal flow, acquisitions, sales, and enterprise value creation.