The announcement comes as the NBA tips off its 75th-anniversary season, and less than a week before the Formula 1 US Grand Prix.
The NBA and Formula 1 have announced a content and activation partnership to celebrate the tip-off of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary season this week, as well as the return of F1 to the US at the 2021 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix on Oct. 24.
In the lead up to both milestones, exclusive imagery featuring F1 cars in custom liveries representing all 30 NBA teams will be released on both organizations’ social channels. The first 10 cars will showcase the Central and Pacific divisions, which will be unveiled Monday.
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On Oct. 21, ESPN will host drivers from F1 teams for a free throw challenge at an NBA 75th Anniversary-themed basketball half-court within the Circuit of Americas paddock. NBA legends will be there as well to provide free throw shooting tips, with a $20,000 prize that will be awarded to a charity of the winner’s choice.
The Formula 1 US Grand Prix has been held at the Circuit of the Americas track in Austin since 2012, but the racing company was forced to take a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Heading into the race, Max Verstappen (262.5) has a six-point lead over Lewis Hamilton (256.5).
Britain’s Hamilton has won the last four F1 championships dating back to 2017 and seven overall, while Dutch phenom Verstappen has finished third the last two years.
The NBA’s season will begin Tuesday with the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks hosting the Brooklyn Nets and the Warriors playing the Lakers at the Staples Center. Both games can be seen on TNT.
