Nike Extend Partnership with NBA, WNBA and G League by 12 Years
Elliott Hill has kicked off his first week as Nike president and CEO, coming in strong by signing a colossal extension to Team Swoosh’s partnership with the NBA, WNBA and G League. Nike have been a partner of the National Basketball Association since 1992 and the marketing partners of the WNBA since its inception in 1997 and the G League since the 2017/18 season. This fresh extension follows eight years of Beaverton outfitting, merchandising and marketing for the NBA, with the sportswear brand becoming the official on-court outfitter starting in the 2017/18 season.
For the coming twelve seasons, Nike have extended their rights over the design and manufacture of the three leagues' uniforms, on-court and fan apparel. They are also extending the licensing agreement to include the National Basketball Players Association, which is the labour union that represents NBA players. Nike have made its their mission to highlight and create new initiatives with the three leagues, with a focus on community driven basketball and membership programs that benefit fans. The WNBA is a mega focus for Team Swoosh too, who have pledged to deepen their investment in the program.
‘Since our league’s inception, Nike has committed to a shared vision for girls and women’s basketball,’ WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a . ‘Our continued partnership is an opportunity to fortify avenues for development and enhance touchpoints across our dynamic fanbase while globally showcasing the WNBA.’
Together with Nike, the NBA, WNBA and G League have made it a focus to expand its basketball programs for the next generation with programs. They will introduce a youth-focused initiative that prioritises accessible coaching and training for kids of all abilities. The Junior WNBA and Basketball Without Borders will be a priority, where they will improve player experience for girls of all levels. Further developmental opportunities will be made available through the Nike Youth Basketball League.
‘Nike has always been more than a league sponsor – we’re a strategic partner with an unwavering commitment to growing the game, alongside the NBA, WNBA and NBA G League,’ said new Nike CEO and president Elliott Hill. ‘Our collective power, global reach and genuine love for the game will only continue to create new pathways and opportunities for players and fans.’
As part of this extension, Nike will further establish their presence at key basketball events like: NBA Global Games, NBA All-Star, WNBA All-Star, the NBA Draft, the WNBA Draft, WNBA Changemakers, NBA 2K Summer League and NBA G League Fall Invitational.
In other NBA news, Foot Locker signed a multi-year partnership with the Chicago Bulls.