NBA and IBM Renew Global Partnership through 2002
New Store on NBA.com to Launch in 2000
NEW YORK (November 04, 1999) – The National Basketball Association and IBM have formally announced the renewal of their global partnership through the 2001– 2002 NBA season. This partnership makes IBM the “Official Worldwide Information Technology Partner of the NBA, the “Official Worldwide Computer Products Company of the NBA,” and the “Official Worldwide e-Commerce Partner of the NBA.”
An NBA partner since 1992, IBM has the league’s exclusive marketing rights for computer hardware, software and information technology services. As part of this new agreement, IBM will design, create, and manage the NBA Store @ NBA.com, which will include customized online boutiques for all 29 NBA teams. The NBA Store @ NBA.com will launch during the second half of the 1999-2000 NBA season and be accessible through http://www.NBA.com and each of the 29 team sites, which are all part of NBA.com.
“IBM is an outstanding global partner for the NBA and we’re proud to continue and grow our relationship,” said Ken Derrett, NBA Senior Vice President of Marketing Partnerships. “Whether assisting our coaches with game strategies, working with us to create the ultimate online store, or delivering real-time statistics around the world, IBM provides us with technology that helps us connect with our fans.”
“Our relationship with the NBA enables us to apply our extensive e-business expertise to help support the league’s business initiatives,” said Tom Burke, IBM sports marketing senior manager. “The NBA has an incredible following worldwide and the new online store will make it that much easier for fans to access merchandise.”
Source: IBM