The NBA Board of Governors on Friday approved the sale of jersey sponsorships, which will begin in the 2017 season.
As part of a 3-year pilot program, the sponsorship patch will be on the front left of the game jerseys opposite the Nike logo.
“Jersey sponsorships provide deeper engagement with partners looking to build a unique association with our teams and the additional investment will help grow the game in exciting new ways,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a release. “We’re always thinking about innovative ways the NBA can remain competitive in a global marketplace, and we are excited to see the results of this three-year trial.”
The patch will measure 2.5-inches by 2.5-inches and will be adjusted to fit the dimensions of each logo. It will not appear on retail versions of the jerseys, but teams can sell jerseys with sponsorships at retail outlets.
Jersey sponsorship is already prevalent in many leagues across the world, especially in soccer.
