Nike Extends Historic Partnership with NBA, WNBA, & G League Through 2037

by: Aurelia Swift

Nike Signs Historic 12-Year Partnership Extension with NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League, Securing Global Leadership Through 2037

NEW YORK, Oct. 21, 2024 – Nike, Inc. (NYSE: NKE), in a groundbreaking move, has solidified its legacy as the exclusive on-court uniform and apparel provider for the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League through a new 12-year global partnership extension. The agreement, which runs through 2037, reaffirms Nike’s dominance in the basketball world, furthering a decades-long relationship that has shaped the future of the sport at every level.

With this unprecedented deal, Nike will continue to provide innovative designs and merchandise to the NBA, WNBA, and G League, while also delivering experiences that go beyond the court. The extension underscores Nike’s position as not just a sponsor, but a strategic partner invested in the growth of the game for players and fans alike.

Innovation Meets Legacy

Nike’s influence on basketball apparel has been iconic since the company first partnered with the NBA in 1992, and it became the official on-court outfitter in 2017. Over the years, Nike’s designs have blended cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of basketball culture, creating uniforms that honor tradition while looking to the future.

“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 Elliott Hill, President and CEO of Nike, Inc. “This partnership enables us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation while creating new opportunities for players and fans worldwide.”

Beyond the uniforms, Nike has used its extensive reach to fuel stories around the sport, turning moments on the court into cultural milestones. The company has also been a strong supporter of social movements tied to basketball, reinforcing its reputation as a brand that doesn’t just create products but also champions progress.

Focus on the WNBA

A standout feature of the new partnership is Nike’s continued and expanded commitment to women’s basketball. The company has long supported the WNBA, serving as a marketing partner since the league’s inception in 1997, and it will continue to promote women’s sports through both apparel and broader engagement strategies.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert highlighted Nike’s impact: “Since our league’s inception, Nike has committed to a shared vision for girls’ and women’s basketball. Our continued partnership is an opportunity to fortify avenues for development and enhance touchpoints across our dynamic fanbase while globally showcasing the WNBA.”

Nike’s involvement in women’s basketball extends beyond the professional level, with grassroots programs designed to foster talent and inspire young female athletes. This renewed partnership will further develop initiatives like the Jr. WNBA and expand access to basketball opportunities for girls of all levels. With more investment, the future looks brighter for women’s basketball, as Nike continues to elevate the sport.

Commitment to Youth Basketball

Nike’s partnership with the NBA, WNBA, and G League extends well beyond the professional courts. The extension emphasizes a renewed focus on youth basketball, with plans to expand and enhance access to the sport at the grassroots level. This includes support for Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA programs that bring best-in-class coaching, training, and development opportunities to young players across the globe.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver pointed to the importance of these initiatives: “Nike is inextricably linked to basketball and has helped fuel the growth and innovation around our sport for decades. With an added focus on youth basketball, our expanded partnership will create even more opportunities for aspiring players to learn and compete at all levels.”

By working with the NBA and WNBA, Nike plans to introduce new programs that prioritize accessibility and development for young athletes, including collaborations with the Jr. NBA, Jr. WNBA, and Basketball Without Borders programs. These programs aim to make high-quality coaching and development available to youth from all backgrounds.

NBA G League and Player Development

The NBA G League, the league’s official minor league, has become a critical part of the NBA’s player development pipeline. As part of the extended partnership, Nike will continue to support the G League by providing uniforms, apparel, and promoting development opportunities for up-and-coming talent.

The NBA G League now boasts 31 teams, with 30 directly affiliated with NBA franchises, and acts as a training ground for future NBA stars. The G League’s prominence has risen, and with Nike’s continued involvement, the focus will be on enhancing player development programs that cater to health, on-court skills, and leadership training.

Continued Collaboration with the NBPA

In addition to extending its partnership with the NBA, Nike also renewed its group license agreement with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), ensuring that Nike remains an official partner of the NBPA.

NBPA Executive Director Andre Iguodala expressed his excitement about the renewal: “We’re excited to renew our partnership with Nike and continue to showcase our players’ efforts on and off the court. This partnership highlights the reach, influence, and impact of our members, driving basketball fandom and inspiring millions of people around the world.”

Looking Ahead: Global Impact and Cultural Influence

With this 12-year extension, Nike is poised to continue shaping the landscape of basketball for the next generation. The partnership will allow Nike to expand its presence at marquee events like the NBA Global Games, NBA All-Star Weekend, and the WNBA Changemakers series. Furthermore, Nike will work with the leagues to create content and marketing initiatives that will keep basketball at the forefront of global sports culture.

As the sport grows in popularity across borders, Nike’s investment ensures that basketball remains accessible, inclusive, and innovative for fans and players alike.

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