WNBA and NBA Extend Collaboration with Nike for Another 12 Years
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Nike and the NBA have announced a 12-year extension of their global partnership, reinforcing Nike’s position as the official provider of on-court uniforms and apparel for the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League. The agreement builds on a collaboration that began in 1992 and focuses on advancing basketball globally while fostering youth development and grassroots initiatives.
Under the agreement, Nike will continue to design and manufacture uniforms and apparel for players and fans. The extension emphasizes programs aimed at making basketball more accessible to players of all ages and abilities while expanding opportunities for women and girls in the sport.
“This partnership extension reflects our enduring commitment to growing the game, championing basketball culture, and supporting the next generation of athletes,” said Sarah Mensah, President of Jordan Brand.
Key components of the renewed partnership include the expansion of programs such as Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA, which prioritize age-appropriate coaching, training, and on-court development. These initiatives aim to broaden access to basketball and improve the playing experience for young athletes globally.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver highlighted Nike’s impact on the sport’s growth. “Nike is inextricably linked to basketball and has helped fuel the growth and innovation around our sport for decades,” he said. “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 and for fans of all ages to engage with the NBA and WNBA.”
The extension also includes continued collaboration on Basketball Without Borders, an initiative designed to provide international players with development opportunities, and the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League, which will expand its player health, leadership, and on-court programming.
Nike’s role as a longtime supporter of women’s basketball remains central to the partnership. The company has been a marketing partner of the WNBA since its inception in 1997 and will deepen its investment in the women’s game through expanded resources and opportunities for girls and women at all levels of play.
“Since our league’s inception, Nike has committed to a shared vision for girls and women’s basketball,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “Our continued partnership is an opportunity to fortify avenues for development and enhance touchpoints across our dynamic fanbase while globally showcasing the WNBA.”
The partnership also promises new ways to engage fans through distinctive products, content, and experiences. Nike and the NBA are developing a joint membership program aimed at enhancing fan loyalty through exclusive benefits.
Elliott Hill, NIKE, Inc. President and CEO, emphasized the synergy between Nike and the 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,” Hill said. “Our collective power, global reach, and genuine love for the game will only continue to create new pathways and opportunities for players and fans.”
The National Basketball Players Association also renewed its group licensing agreement with Nike, ensuring the continued promotion of players’ efforts both on and off the court.
“We’re excited to renew our partnership with Nike and continue to showcase our players’ efforts on and off the court,” said NBPA Executive Director Andre Iguodala. “This partnership highlights the reach, influence, and impact of our members, driving basketball fandom and inspiring millions of people around the world.”
The 12-year extension builds on the eight-year partnership that began in 2015, which first made Nike the NBA’s official outfitter for the 2017-18 season. As the collaboration continues through 2035, both organizations aim to expand basketball’s reach and create more opportunities for athletes and fans alike.
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