Getty Images
The International Basketball Federation (Fiba) has named agency giant IMG as the global master licensee of the organisation’s 2023 Basketball World Cup.
The multi-year deal will see Endeavor-owned IMG work with Fiba to develop an extensive range of merchandising products for next year’s tournament, including apparel, toys and games.
The items will be available on-site at official promotional events in the lead-up to the Fiba Basketball World Cup and at all five venues hosting the competition, as well through other promotional and Fiba partner activities during the event. They will also be available at official fan shops and retailers, as well as via the official online store.
The next edition of Fiba’s flagship men’s tournament is taking place from 25th August to 10th September 2023 in Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines. It is the first time in the history of the competition that multiple countries will host the tournament. Next year’s event will also feature a record 32 national teams, up from the 24 that competed in 2019.
Fiba and Two Circles partner on global basketball DTC platform
“The global master licensee is an important component in the build up to the Fiba Basketball World Cup 2023 and the road to the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia,” said David Crocker, Fiba Basketball World Cup 2023 executive director.
“Basketball fans are very passionate, and we want their World Cup experience to be engaging, memorable and exciting, and one they will never forget.”
Bruno Maglione, president of licensing at IMG, added: “The Fiba Basketball World Cup is the pinnacle global event of one of the world’s most popular sports. Basketball at the national team level has grown increasingly competitive with an ever-widening number of countries having a realistic chance to win the top prize – generating more passion, excitement and fan engagement.
“We will capitalise on that, working with Fiba to create an all-encompassing merchandise and retail programme for fans in all three host countries, as well as those tuning in from around the world.”
Enjoying SportsPro content? Create your account and get enhanced access to all the latest stories.
Have an account? Log in
A link has been emailed to you – check your inbox.
Already registered?
Don’t have an account?
