Nike to aid Brazilian basketball development with LNB deal

Brazil’s National Basketball League (LNB) has entered into a partnership with US sportswear giant Nike.

The four-year deal will run until 2021 and will focus on developing the sport of basketball in Brazil. The agreement covers all competitions operated by the LNB.

As part of the deal, Nike will supply apparel for referees and staff in the top-tier Novo Basquete Brasil competition. The company will also provide kit for the Jogo das Estrelas all-star game.

The partnership will be used to promote basketball among young people in Brazil and put them in touch with leading experts of the sport from around the world. Various institutional, media and promotional initiatives will also be included in the agreement.

“Basketball is part of Nike's DNA, and it's a very important sport for brand strategy globally,” David Seales, senior director of sports marketing for Nike Brasil, said. “The sport is becoming increasingly international and its presence in Brazil has increased greatly in recent years. The LNB is the one responsible for this development and the right partner to follow to help in contributing to national basketball.”