The Impact of Drake and Jay-Z on the NBA

Music artists tend to associate themselves with NBA players from their home teams. Two well-known music artists associated with the NBA are Drake and Jay-Z. With Drake representing the Toronto Raptors and Jay-Z representing the Brooklyn Nets, both artists are bringing in revenues for the NBA throughout North America. 

According to Georgetown Sports Analysis, “Drake could be the missing factor which will draw more fans to the games, shine the spotlight brighter on Toronto basketball, attract world-class free agents, and result in a long sought NBA title. To kick off the changes, he is planning to overhaul the uniforms and logo in an attempt to rejuvenate interest in merchandise and boost sales.”

Jay-Z has also played a huge role in the growing popularity and revenue of the Brooklyn Nets. According to Georgetown Sports Analysis, "Three months before the season began, sponsorship revenue was also double than what it had been the entire previous year. The Nets sold out every game in their inaugural season, in large part to the flashy, high priced free agent signings that resulted from the opportunity of working with Jay-Z. His brand-building campaign, anchored by what he is most known for - rapping - is helping turn the Brooklyn Nets into a globally recognized organization."

Drake and Jay-Z have increased profits within the NBA and I have seen firsthand the impact Drake has had on the Toronto Raptors. The number of individuals wearing Toronto Raptors gear has increased immensely around the city. Drake’s OVO night at the ACC has been a great success leading to sold out crowds and countless fan support. The atmosphere of the city and of the ACC was remarkable during the Raptors playoffs and to top it all off, the ‘Drake era’ has led to the All Star Weekend taking place in Toronto instead of the US for the first time in NBA history.

Who do you think has had a bigger impact on the NBA, Drake or Jay-Z?

Sources:

Graboyes, W. (2014, November 30). Can Drake Bring the Jay-Z/Nets Strategy to Toronto? Retrieved from Georgetown Sports Analysis, Business, and Research Group: https://georgetownsportsanalysis.wordpress.com/2014/11/30/can-drake-bring-the-jay-znets-strategy-to-toronto/