Champion, the global lifestyle brand born from sport, is thrilled to be announced as the official naming rights sponsor of one of Australia’s leading street basketball competitions, King of the Court. The signing comes as organisers gear up for the event’s seventh anniversary this spring, introducing new elements to expand its appeal and impact.
Rory O’Halloran, Brand Manager of Champion Australia and New Zealand, said: “With a sporting legacy of over 100 years, including six decades in basketball, sport is sewn into Champion’s DNA. We are committed to supporting initiatives, athletes and enthusiasts at all levels from elite squads to grassroots organisations, which is why we are so proud to announce our partnership with King of the Court.
We are not just sponsoring an event—we are fostering one of basketball’s fastest growing community initiatives and celebrating talent of all calibres. We can’t wait to see our partnership flourish and deliver a memorable experience for all."
Mitch Lang, founder of King of the Court, said: “King of the Court has become a cornerstone of Melbourne’s sporting culture by seamlessly blending athleticism, community spirit, and streetball culture, drawing over 100 players and 1,500 spectators last year.
Champion's deep roots in basketball and dedication to empowering community perfectly aligns with the spirit of King of the Court. We’re looking forward to seeing how our new partnership elevates our growing event.”
This year's Champion King of the Court tournament will boast an all-new program, celebrating all corners of streetball culture. While the heart of the event remains the electrifying 3x3, 1x1 and dunking competitions, this year’s iteration will introduce ‘Queen of the Court’, showcasing some of the nation’s best female ballers in dedicated 3x3 comps. All teams will be fitted by Champion Teamwear.
Alongside the slam dunks and buzzer-beaters, the 2024 event will host ‘Who's Got Next’ – a new music performance battle where aspiring artists compete for the coveted title of ‘King/Queen of the Mic’. Crowds will determine the winner, ensuring an electrifying atmosphere.
Champion’s basketball legacy dates back to 1967 when the brand unveiled its ‘Nylon Mesh Jersey’ to the world. Over the next six decades, Champion’s has continued to solidify its connection and care for the game on a global scale. Major credits include outfitting the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1989-2001, including the iconic Dream Team with Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson, and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) from 1997-2001.
Today, Champion’s basketball heritage continues to inspire its apparel design, brand ethos and community connections. Locally, the brand is the official on-court apparel sponsor of the National Basketball League (NBL) and the premier sponsor of the Queer Sporting Alliance, Australia and New Zealand’s premier LGBTIQA+ sporting club. Champion’s ‘Teamwear’ offering also allows community clubs to be fitted like the pros with a series of customisable solutions.
As the naming rights sponsor of King of the Court, Champion will be involved across all levels of the event including developing limited-edition merchandise, available for purchase on-site.
Champion King of the Court will take place on Saturday, 9th November 2024 at RMIT in Melbourne CBD.
For more information, visit: kingofthecourt.org.
About us:
ABOUT CHAMPION®
Since 1919, Champion has offered a full line of innovative athletic apparel for men and women, including activewear, sweats, tees, sports bras, team uniforms, footwear and accessories.
Today, as a lifestyle brand born from sport, Champion uses innovative design and state-of-the-art product testing to ensure uncompromised quality and innovative apparel for consumers. Beyond its products, the brand’s mission is to provide every champion a canvas to live their true purpose; rooted in the belief that champions are defined not by what they make, but by what they do with it.
Champion wants to inspire others to not just win, but to champion a better tomorrow, and is dedicated to supporting creators by giving them a platform to tell their stories, support their values, and communities.
Champion apparel collections are available globally in flagship stores, select retailers and online at
champion.com.au.
@championausnz
Contact details:
For more information and interview requests, please contact:
Aislinn Powell | [email protected] | 0412 646 941