Exciting Times for the NBA: A Record Number of Marketing Partners!
Los Angeles, CA – As the NBA gears up for the 2024-25 season, there’s buzz in the air, and it’s not just from the anticipated slam dunks and buzzer-beaters! The league has hit a remarkable milestone by signing up 51 marketing partners, a record for the NBA as it kicks off this season. This offseason has been nothing short of a whirlwind, with seven new brands jumping on board and additional renewals from established partnerships.
New Faces in the Game
So, who are these newcomers making waves? Well, let’s start with Emirates, which recently joined the party as the global airline partner. Just a few days ahead of the last season’s All-Star Game, they landed a deal that includes branding for the league’s second annual in-season tournament, now known as the Emirates NBA Cup. This tournament is set to kick off next week and will run for a month, culminating with the semifinals and championship game at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Joining Emirates is SoFi, which formed a multi-year deal with the NBA, the G League, the NBA 2K League, and USA Basketball. SoFi stands out as the first title sponsor for the newly minted SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament, a postseason showdown for teams finishing the regular season between the 7th and 10th spots in each conference. Talk about a thrilling way to determine playoff contenders!
The Roster Expands
But that’s not all; a slew of other brands have hopped on the NBA bandwagon this year. We’ve got Castrol, Kendall Jackson — how cool is it that the NBA now has a wine partner? — Wingstop, United Wholesale Mortgage, and Rhone, a dress shirt company with notable roots. Coincidentally, Rhone is co-founded by the sons of former NBA executive Dave Checketts, who has strong ties to teams like the Utah Jazz and New York Knicks.
Renewal and Growth
In addition to the brand-new collaborations, the NBA is keeping its old friends close. DoorDash, a league sponsor since 2020, recently extended its partnership, demonstrating that loyal relationships continue to thrive in the league. According to Kerry Tatlock, the NBA’s executive vice president of global partnerships, the mix of established and new brands paves the way for a bright future. “We are optimistic that we are on pace to continue positive momentum,” Tatlock stated, showcasing a confident outlook towards the league’s partner business.
What Lies Ahead
With the season just around the corner, fans can look forward to not only the on-court action but also how these exciting partnerships will unfold. From the SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament to the Emirates NBA Cup, there are plenty of fresh experiences for basketball aficionados to look ahead to.
The excitement also resonates beyond basketball. This season isn’t just about the players and teams; it’s about the brands coming together to create an unforgettable atmosphere for fans. Whether you’re in your living room, at a sports bar, or courtside, the energy is sure to be felt all around!
So, gear up for a thrilling season as the NBA takes the court with a record number of partners. It’s thrilling to see how the game of basketball is blossoming, with various companies eager to be part of the action. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer just catching the sports fever, there’s never been a better time to be part of the NBA community. Let’s get ready to enjoy an electrifying season ahead!
