NEW YORK -The Phoenix Mercury and LifeLock have entered a multi-year marketing partnership to launch the first-ever branded jersey in WNBA or NBA history, it was announced today by Phoenix Mercury President and COO Jay Parry and LifeLock CEO Todd Davis at a press conference at the NBA Store in New York City. LifeLock is an industry leader in identity theft protection.
Highlighting the innovative alliance, which runs through 2011, is the appearance of the LifeLock name on the front of Phoenix Mercury's player jerseys and on warm-up suits. The Mercury and LifeLock are the first to finalize such an agreement following the WNBA's decision this off-season to make this unique opportunity available for its teams and sponsors.
As part of the marquee partnership and a big benefit for the league's most devoted fans, LifeLock will be offering a one-year complimentary membership valued at $110 each to season ticket holders of all WNBA teams. In addition, all fans can take advantage of a special offer to receive a free membership for one child 16 and under in their immediate family with the discounted purchase of an adult membership.
"I'm extremely proud to have LifeLock associated with the Phoenix Mercury and the WNBA," said Davis. "While this partnership allows us to be the first organization to support a team and league in a unique, pioneering way, it's also a natural fit for LifeLock to align with WNBA to reach its loyal and passionate fan base."
"This groundbreaking partnership with LifeLock represents an important next step in the growth of the WNBA," said NBA Commissioner David Stern. "We are confident that its alliance with the Mercury and the WNBA will accelerate LifeLock's growth, and this deal serves as a blueprint for other associations of its kind with all our WNBA teams."
"LifeLock and the Mercury are leading organizations in our respective fields, which is why we are thrilled to be able to align our missions for the advancement of our community, our fans and the WNBA as a whole," said Parry. "This partnership will go beyond the court and will broaden the opportunities for LifeLock, the Mercury and the WNBA to continue to flourish."
In addition to player jersey rights, the partnership includes on-court apparel, in-arena signage, branding on the court, exposure on PhoenixMercury.com, including all social media outlets and e-marketing efforts. The collaboration also includes the launch of the LifeLock SafeZone basketball and life mentoring programs for underserved girls.
"Since its inception, the WNBA continues to redefine the sports landscape and this LifeLock partnership is consistent with the league's innovative mindset," said WNBA President Donna Orender. "The WNBA's iconic status continues to inspire young people around the world and we are pleased to have LifeLock join our team."
Diana Taurasi, Mercury guard and three-time WNBA All-Star emphasized the loyalty that WNBA players and fans have for those who support the league. "I join all WNBA players in thanking LifeLock for believing in our dream," said Taurasi. "I'll be proud to wear the jersey, and this great new partnership recognizes the value of our game and the power of our incredible fans." The WNBA tips off its 13th season on Saturday, June 6. The Phoenix Mercury host the San Antonio Silver Stars and tickets start at just $10. For tickets and information, call (602) 252-WNBA or visit phoenixmercury.com.
The Phoenix Mercury, one of the eight original WNBA teams, tips off its 13th season on Saturday, June 6 vs. the San Antonio Silver Stars. Last season the Mercury became the first team in WNBA history to lead the league in scoring for three consecutive seasons. The franchise, which won the state's first professional basketball title in 2007, is led by All-Stars Diana Taurasi, Cappie Pondexter, who in 2008 became the first teammates in WNBA history to finish as the league's first and second leading scorers. The Phoenix Mercury organization was recently named as one of the top 20 places for females to work, by the Arizona Republic.
LifeLock is a proactive identity theft protection service providing consumers with confidence and control as an answer for their good faith suspicion of becoming the next victim. LifeLock (www.lifelock.com) leads the charge against the crime by educating consumers, working with law enforcement, and developing leading services/products, and doing what it should for members.
The WNBA is a unique global sports property combining competition, sportsmanship and entertainment value with its status as an icon for social change, achievement and diversity. Comprised of 13 teams, the WNBA is the most successful women's professional team sports league in the world. The league concluded its historic 12th regular season with increases in attendance, ratings, Web traffic and merchandise sales. The 2009 WNBA season will tip off June 6 on ABC.
Through WNBA Cares, the WNBA is deeply committed to creating programs that improve the quality of life for all people, with a special emphasis on programs that promote a healthy lifestyle and positive body image, increase breast and women's health awareness, support youth and family development, and focus on education. For more information on the WNBA, log on to www.wnba.com.
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