The multi-year deal coincides with the start of the 2021 WNBA Playoffs Thursday.
The WNBA is gearing up for the playoffs with a big brand announcement.
The league namedDICK’S Sporting Goods an official marketing partner as part of a multi-year agreement to commit to women’s sports. As the W’s official sporting goods retail partner, the league and DICK’S Sporting Goods will combine to increase the visibility of WNBA teams and players nationwide while creating initiatives to inspire and connect with female athletes of all ages.
As part of the deal,DICK’S Sporting Goods will become the largest national retailer for WNBA merchandise. That includes the sale of the new Nike jersey for all 12 teams, Wilson WNBA basketballs and t-shirts, and in select locations (including all 12 WNBA markets), the popular logowoman hoodie.
“This partnership is a significant opportunity for the WNBA as we celebrate our landmark 25th season, withDICK’S Sporting Goods playing a substantial role in driving continued interest and engagement surrounding our league,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “By having a significant presence of WNBA and team merchandise atDICK’S locations in the country, we will now have even more opportunities to connect our fans with their favorite teams.DICK’S commitment to the WNBA is diverse and inclusive leadership in action.”
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As it celebrates its 25th anniversary, the W continues to grow in ratings and popularity, with bigger brands joining in to help bolster the league’s momentum.
“The WNBA is a premier example of how sport can define leaders and celebrate the current and next generation of female athletes,” said Lauren Hobart,DICK’S Sporting Goods’ president and CEO. “Today marks an important next step in our journey to support female athletes, and we look forward to collaborating with the W to provide opportunities for people of all ages to engage and connect with women’s basketball, the league, and its players.”
The WNBA postseason begins Thursday with single-elimination quarterfinal matchups as Candace Parker and the Chicago Sky host Arike Ogunbowale and the Dallas Wings, followed by Sabrina Ionescu and the New York Liberty visiting Skylar Diggins-Smith, Brittney Griner, Diana Tarausi, and the Phoenix Mercury.
