AMERICAN EXPRESS EXPANDS NBA AND WNBA PARTNERSHIP GLOBALLY

American Express has expanded its partnership with the National Basketball Association and the Women's National Basketball Association to include international activations for the first time. The multiyear deal builds on American Express's existing role as official payments partner of the NBA and WNBA, and now also covers USA Basketball, the NBA G League and NBA Take-Two Media. American Express becomes presenting partner of selected NBA Houses, fan venues featuring viewing parties and player meet-and-greets, and associate partner of three NBA Global Games this season, all sold out. Elizabeth Rutledge, chief marketing officer at American Express, said the expansion marks "an exciting next chapter, bringing Card Members and fans around the world closer to the game."

The three Global Games include the NBA Mexico City Game 2026, presented by Michelob Ultra, between the Denver Nuggets and Indiana Pacers on 7 November. The NBA Paris Game 2027, presented by Tissot, follows on 14 January, and the NBA Manchester Game 2027 takes place on 17 January, both featuring the New Orleans Pelicans against the San Antonio Spurs. American Express also continues as entitlement partner of NBA Tip-Off, maintaining relationships with the Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls, Utah Jazz and New York Liberty. The expansion marks the partnership's first season of international activations.

Kerry Tatlock, the NBA's executive vice president of global marketing partnerships and media, said: "We're thrilled to build upon the longstanding partnership success we've had with American Express and now deliver programs and activations to fans around the world." American Express said the deal forms part of a wider global sports strategy spanning leagues, teams, events and venues. The two organisations have maintained a partnership for decades. No further fixtures were announced.