Highsman operates as the official lifestyle brand of entrepreneur and NFL legend Ricky Williams, positioned at the intersection of sports and cannabis. The brand currently serves multiple states including New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, with strategic partnerships enabling wholesale distribution through licensed dispensaries.Highsman's core cannabis offerings include three curated collections: energizing 'Pregame' sativas, well-rounded 'Halftime' hybrids, and restorative 'Postgame' indicas. Each strain is meticulously selected and named by Ricky himself, ensuring alignment with the Highsman standard. The brand's innovative HIT STICKS feature three varieties: solventless rosin-infused flower, distillate and terpene-infused flower with up to 50%+ THC potency, and traditional flower options.Beyond cannabis, Highsman includes a stylish streetwear line and robust smoking accessories, including rolling trays, cases, and water bottles. Williams and his team operate as connoisseurs, personally testing products and partnering only with cultivators who share their passion for the plant itself, not just the business.
Highsman launched in October 2021 as the brainchild of NFL legend and 1998 Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams. Williams faced five NFL suspensions for cannabis use during his career, missing two full seasons, but remained committed to his beliefs about the plant's wellness benefits.CEO Eric Hammond noted that the brand has been "years in the making," representing Williams' journey from football field to cannabis advocacy. The brand name itself is a clever spinoff of the Heisman Trophy, positioning Highsman "at the intersection of sports and cannabis" for fans and aficionados of both.Initially launching in California, Nevada, and Oregon, Highsman expanded to the East Coast in 2022 through a partnership with Tilt Holdings. Massachusetts became the third state in 2022, followed by Pennsylvania. Most recently, the brand is available in New Jersey with plans to launch into new markets in early 2025. In February 2025, Highsman revolutionized the market with the release of HIT STICKS in Massachusetts, creating an entirely new single-use cannabis product category.
Highsman's mission centers on changing how people talk about cannabis, with Williams stating: "It is time we change the way we talk about cannabis. Highsman is about an appreciation for greatness". The brand's tagline "Spark Greatness" reflects Williams' goal to break cannabis stigma while positively affecting change in the industry and world.Williams aimed to address two key objectives: "break down the cannabis stigma and improve access for those who benefit from its use". The passionate team behind Highsman wants to "help all people inspire greatness in themselves", empowering both professional and everyday athletes.Williams credits cannabis with extending his 11-year NFL career, sharing: "Having cannabis in my life helped me appreciate, enjoy, and recover from the brutal game of professional football". This personal experience drives Highsman's commitment to wellness, recovery, and authentic living.
At Calm Effect, we're impressed by Highsman's authentic approach to cannabis culture. Williams' journey from facing NFL suspensions to becoming a successful cannabis entrepreneur demonstrates genuine conviction and authenticity that resonates with consumers seeking trustworthy brands.The innovative HIT STICKS product showcases Highsman's commitment to solving real consumer problems - delivering "convenient, potent and low-cost puffs" with up to 50%+ THC potency. This innovation mindset makes them valuable for deal-seekers who want cutting-edge products at competitive prices.What sets Highsman apart is their connoisseur approach - Williams and his team personally test everything, focusing on flavor, terpenes, and the overall experience rather than just business metrics. The football-themed strain names (Pregame, Halftime, Postgame) create an intuitive shopping experience that even newcomers can understand, making cannabis more accessible to sports enthusiasts and broader audiences.