As a global NBA spokesman for the brand, his autographed memorabilia will retail via Panini America and Panini Authentic
Sports and collectibles company, Panini America, has entered into an exclusive partnership with Oklahoma City Thunder icon, Kevin Durant. The multi-pronged deal covers the trading card, autograph, marketing, and business development aspects of the brand.
As part of the agreement, the athlete will serve as a global NBA spokesman for the group. Meanwhile, every category of memorabilia autographed by him will be available exclusively via Panini America and Panini Authentic. The tie-up coincides with the debut of the marque’s pilot television campaign featuring the star.
Led by a 15-minute spot, the push includes an extended version which will be integrated across the brand’s collection of digital and social media platforms. It is an illustration of a collector whose Durant trading cards come to life as the young fan calls out plays.
The said premiere is set to present spots scheduled for roll-out across a slew of kid-centric networks such as Cartoon Network, Disney XD, and Nickelodeon. Moving forward, Panini’s hobby and mass retail products will bear markings of the player’s initialled inscription.
He has already been featured on one of the brand’s first trading card exclusive lines for Target. He will soon appear on the packaging for its Donruss range, a Walmart exclusive product for the latest season. The latter is set to see release in advance of the 2016 NBA All-Star game.
“The way he carries himself on and off the court is as inspirational to us as it is to millions of fans throughout the world. We’re proud to be entering this exclusive relationship with Kevin and the Panini family, and look forward to a bright future with him,” said Mark Warsop, CEO of Panini America.
