NBA selling team-themed coronavirus masks, proceeds going to charity
At a time when the coronavirus pandemic has turned the face mask into America’s newest must-have fashion accessory, the NBA is jumping into the market.
The league announced Friday that it has teamed up with Fanatics to launch a line of cloth face coverings, featuring league logos and designs for all 30 NBA and 12 WNBA teams.
The face masks are available on NBAStore.com and WNBAStore.com in packs of three for $24.99 or individually at $14.99. All league proceeds from sales of the masks will benefit Feeding America in the United States and Second Harvest in Canada.
[ More purchase info can be found here ]
“As a global community, we can all play a role in reducing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic by following the CDC’s recommendation to cover our nose and mouth while in public,” said Kathy Behrens, NBA President, Social Responsibility and Player Programs. “Through this new product offering, NBA and WNBA fans can adhere to these guidelines while joining in the league’s efforts to aid those who have been directly affected by COVID-19.”
Earlier this month, the CDC announced new guidelines recommending people protect against the coronavirus by wearing face masks or face coverings when going outside. That instantly opened a huge new market for face masks that double as fashion statements.
You can buy face masks in flower print, camo, plaid or stripes. Or with caution tape and “Keep 6 Feet Away” imprinted on the front.
Major brands such as Prada, Burberry and Louis Vuitton have repurposed their factories to produce face masks and other necessities for medical staff. Smaller companies have donated a mask to essential workers for every one they sell to the public.
The NBA resisted making licensed facial coverings for weeks, but the league reversed course on Friday. The decision to give the proceeds from sales to charities reflects the NBA's desire to make a positive impact amid the pandemic.
“We are grateful to the NBA, WNBA and Fanatics for this partnership that will support food banks with funds but also with much needed face coverings to keep their staff, volunteers and neighbors in need safe,” said Katie Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Feeding America.
“In Canada, we have seen the need for access to good food more than double since the pandemic began,” added Lori Nikkel, CEO of Second Harvest. “There are thousands of people working on the frontlines to feed people during this crisis. Their health and safety are vital to ensuring that no one goes hungry.”
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