NBA Kicks Off Season with Record Marketing Partners
As the sun sets over the bustling city of New York, the excitement surrounding the upcoming NBA season is palpable. With just a week to go before tip-off, the league is gearing up for a thrilling 2024-25 season, marked by a flurry of new sponsorships. In fact, the NBA has welcomed a record-breaking 51 marketing partners this year, a testament to the league’s growing allure.
New Faces in the NBA Family
This offseason has been particularly busy, as the NBA has added seven shiny new brands to its team of sponsors. According to Kerry Tatlock, the NBA’s executive vice president of global partnerships, these partnerships range from innovative collaborations to assets that were previously untapped.
One of the standout additions this year is Emirates, which has taken the title of the league’s global airline partner. This partnership kicked off just days ahead of last season’s All-Star Game and included an exciting new title: the Emirates NBA Cup. This monthlong tournament, featuring all 30 teams, is set to be a highlight, culminating in the semifinals and championship game at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
SoFi Takes Center Stage
Another big player joining the NBA this year is SoFi, which has made history as the first title sponsor of the annual preliminary playoff, now known as the SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament. This is where teams ranked 7 through 10 in both conferences battle it out for a chance to secure playoff berths. It’s sure to add an extra layer of excitement to the postseason!
A Diverse Roster of Sponsors
Apart from SoFi and Emirates, the NBA has welcomed several other brands this season. Castrol, Kendall Jackson (making its mark as the league’s first wine partner), Wingstop, United Wholesale Mortgage, and Rhone have all signed on to support the league this year. It’s fascinating to see such a diverse mix of industries getting involved, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to basketball.
Renewing Partnerships for Continued Growth
On the renewal front, DoorDash, a familiar face since 2020, has extended its partnership with the league. Tatlock expressed optimism over this combination of familiar and new partners, believing it sets the stage for ongoing positive momentum in the NBA’s business.
With all these partnerships emerging and existing contracts being renewed, it’s clear the league is on a positive trajectory. The blend of different sponsors not only reflects the popularity of basketball but also brings a variety of experiences and promotions to fans, enhancing the overall NBA experience.
Looking to the Future
The NBA is riding high as it approaches another promising season. Fans can expect not just basketball action but also unique experiences that come with familiar brands stepping into the spotlight alongside thrilling matchups on the courts.
Join the Excitement!
As we brace ourselves for tip-off and the start of the Emirates NBA Cup, there’s never been a better time to be an NBA fan. So, grab your snacks, gather your friends, and get ready to cheer as the new season unfolds. With each game, every partnership adds another layer of excitement, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store!
