October 6, 2020
The NBA and ESPN Launch #ChampionBlackBusinesses During The NBA Finals
ESPN, in collaboration with ABC, the NBA, and The Undefeated, have announced the #ChampionBlackBusinesses initiative. This will be a part of ESPN’s “Rise Together” campaign, which was unveiled earlier in the NBA season. The #ChampionBlackBusinesses initiative was formulated to help elevate Black-owned businesses and their stories, and to make sure to show the significance and impact they have on their communities, across ESPN platforms during The NBA Finals and beyond.
On the court, only one team can be crowned champion this NBA season. Here at ESPN, we look to crown all Black-owned businesses as true champions of their communities.
Join us #ChampionBlackBusinesses pic.twitter.com/p8yB2QhbcS
— ESPN (@espn) September 30, 2020
“We are incredibly humbled and proud to help tell the story of athletes fighting for not only the championship, but also social justice, and it has inspired us to extend our platform to the champions of the Black community who continue to fight for each other,” said Emeka Ofodile, vice president of Sports Marketing, ESPN. “By highlighting these stories of determination, leadership, and perseverance, we want to show that we can all win when we rise together.”
“Black-owned businesses have long been staples in the communities they serve and are making a profound impact in cities where we work and play,” said Danielle Lee, NBA Chief Fan Officer. “We are excited to partner with ESPN and the Undefeated to help elevate the voices and stories of Black-owned businesses and business owners in Miami and Los Angeles, furthering our collective commitment to create greater economic opportunity and equity in the Black community.”
ESPN will spotlight two Black-owned businesses from the two NBA Finals team markets through custom features. The two chosen businesses will be revealed this week via two films that will be highlighting each business’ impact on their respective community. The films will be seen on ESPN’s digital and social media channels as well as The Undefeated. Also, through a collaboration with ABC Sharks Mark Cuban and Daymond John from the ABC show, Shark Tank, they will mentor both businesses on ESPN platforms.
For more information, please visit www.theundefeated.com/championblackbusinesses.