Jay-Z is taking this synergy thing to new levels.

The rapper-turned-record exec, who is also part owner of the NBA's New Jersey Nets, has launched a contest for amateur performers to write and record a new theme song for the Nets theme song.

In conjunction with NYC hip-hop radio Hot 97 and Sprite, the Def Jam president is offering the winner of the contest a chance to meet him, perform the song live at a Nets home game this season, and record it at Manhattan's Baseline Studios II.

The contest winner's song also will be played at Nets home games. Jay-Z himself will pick the winner from three finalists chosen by representatives from the Nets and Hot 97.

Contestants must submit a tape or CD of their song before March 5, but entries can also be uploaded via Hot 97's Web site.

"The Nets are a hot team and we're looking for a song to match the intensity of the players and the game experience," Jay-Z said in a statement. "It's going to be fun to hear the different ways that fans capture the flavor of Nets basketball through music."