FIBA, basketball’s international governing body, has appointed international sports and entertainment company IMG as the global master licensee of its flagship Basketball World Cup in 2023.
The multi-year deal will see IMG work with FIBA to develop an extensive range of merchandise for next year’s tournament.
The 2023 World Cup will take place from August 25 to September 10 and be held in Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines – the first time the competition will be hosted by multiple countries.
A line of products featuring the event's logo, its brand identity and marks, the Naismith Trophy, the mascot, and the host countries' collection will be available for fans in a variety of items, sizes, and colors.
The program will include products in key licensing categories such as apparel, toys and games, souvenirs, accessories, stationery, homeware, and bags and luggage.
The items will be available on-site at official promotional events in the lead-up to the World Cup and at all five venues hosting the 2023 competition, as well through other promotional and FIBA partner activities during the event.
They will also be available at official fan shops and retailers in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia and via the official online store.
David Crocker, FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 executive director, said: "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.
“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 capitalize on that, working with FIBA to create an all-encompassing merchandise and retail program for fans in all three host countries, as well as those tuning in from around the world.”
