The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Wingstop (NASDAQ: WING) have announced a multiyear partnership, naming Wingstop the Official Chicken Partner of the NBA and NBA G League. This marks Wingstop’s debut as an official partner with a major U.S. professional sports league.
With over 2,350 locations and counting, Wingstop will use the partnership to amplify its presence, featuring virtual and courtside signage during nationally televised NBA games, and engaging fans across the league’s social and digital platforms throughout the season.
“Our fans love watching NBA games while enjoying our cooked-to-order wings, hand-sauced and tossed in our bold flavors,” said Michael Skipworth, Wingstop’s President & CEO. “This partnership underscores Wingstop’s unique position, establishing us as the Official Chicken and Wing Partner of the NBA.”
Wingstop will also make a splash at NBA All-Star events, starting with the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the presenting partner of the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game Green Carpet, Wingstop will welcome celebrity guests on Friday, Feb. 14, at Oakland Arena.
“Wingstop is a leader in the industry and a staple in many fans’ game day routines,” said Julie Morris, NBA Senior Vice President of Commercial Development and Media. “We’re thrilled to welcome Wingstop to the NBA family and look forward to collaborating on new, engaging ways to bring fans closer to the game they love.”
This partnership builds on Wingstop’s ongoing relationships with NBA teams like the Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and New York Knicks.
About Wingstop
Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Dallas, TX, Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ: WING) operates and franchises more than 2,350 locations worldwide. The Wing Experts are dedicated to Serving the World Flavor through an unparalleled guest experience and a best-in-class technology platform, all while offering classic and boneless wings, tenders, and chicken sandwiches, cooked to order and hand sauced-and-tossed in fans’ choice of 12 bold, distinctive flavors. Wingstop’s menu also features signature sides including fresh-cut, seasoned fries and freshly-made ranch and bleu cheese dips.
In fiscal year 2023, Wingstop’s system-wide sales increased 27.1% to approximately $3.5 billion, marking the 20th consecutive year of same store sales growth. With a vision of becoming a Top 10 Global Restaurant Brand, Wingstop’s system is comprised of corporate-owned restaurants and independent franchisees, or brand partners, who account for approximately 98% of Wingstop’s total restaurant count of 2,352 as of June 29, 2024.
