Game 7, Shai's Shoes & Fanatics Fest
A Masterclass in Marketing Moments
Last night, the NBA reached it’s championship conclusion as the Oklahoma City Thunder capped off an historic season with the city’s first ever title. From digital comebacks to championship campaigns—here’s what brand leaders can learn from last week’s biggest plays in sports and marketing
The NBA Finals finally felt like the Finals—but only after the league responded to public pressure.
After backlash about stripped-down presentation, the NBA added back:
Court logos (digitally)
Player intros & national anthem broadcasts
Pre-game content packages that built real anticipation
They also dropped Game 7: The Movie highlighting eight decades of winner take all games.
While Game 7 tragically didn’t deliver on-court, the build-up finally did.
It’s okay to have a plan—but it’s better to have ears.
The Oklahoma City Thunder won the 2025 NBA title—and brand partners showed up right on time:
Michelob Ultra claimed the first ad slot post-game with a limited-edition championship bottle collab designed by Victor Solomon
Converse released a classy campaign “Born 2 Win” for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, avoiding trolling and focusing on pride
SGA doubled down with some elite product placement, draping his signature sneakers, in an all gold colorway, around his neck during the postgame festivities
Adidas dropped a sharp digital spot for Jalen Williams
Nike hit all their athletes with a celebratory carousel: “Too young to win it all. Too good to listen.”
Celebrate with precision. Don’t overplay.
Fanatics Fest continued its push to become the destination for sports marketing, collectibles, and cultural connection.
Highlights included:
Salehe x Knicks capsule
Cactus Jack collab with apparel for all leagues
Kevin Durant’s live trade reaction, plus on-stage moments with LeBron & Tom Brady
Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin even admitted:
Not every move needs to drive revenue.
The best plays build trust, community, and culture equity.
New Balance teased “Flagg Day” to celebrate Cooper Flagg’s imminent No. 1 pick
Usher partnered with the Atlanta Braves for a bobblehead night + “Peace Up, A-Town Down” merch—20 years in the making
Until next week—listen with intent, celebrate with care, and invest in moments that matter.
Best,
Derick, the Marketing Point Guard