From CNBC: 2025-06-05 11:11:00

In Game Five of the Western Conference Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder faced off against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Paycom Center. NBA teams saw a $1.62 billion increase in sponsorship revenue this season, with partnerships growing larger and more strategic. The NFL still leads in sponsorship revenue with nearly $2.5 billion.

The rise in NBA revenue is attributed to sponsor patches on team jerseys, which doubled in number last season. The proliferation of these patches has led to significant revenue increases, with more than $80 million in new spending from six first-time jersey partners. The Clippers’ Intuit Dome opening also boosted sponsorship revenue.

Individual star players, like Steph Curry and LeBron James, are driving big endorsement deals in the NBA. Players are becoming brands themselves, attracting sponsors and providing a gateway for brands to connect with teams. Some players, like Curry, have secured long-term endorsement deals, changing their business trajectory significantly.

The Philadelphia 76ers’ Jared McCain set a record with 30 endorsement deals in a single NBA season. Top NBA athletes leading in endorsements include players from the New York Knicks and Golden State Warriors. Curry’s deal with Under Armour in 2013, worth $4 million per year, has since seen an extension with significant stock shares as part of the agreement.



Read more at CNBC: NBA team sponsorship revenue up 8%, boosted by jersey patches