What's Happening?
MatchWornShirt (MWS), an online live auction platform, has entered into a multi-year partnership with the Chicago Bulls, marking its first venture into the NBA space. This collaboration designates MWS as the 'Official Digital Auction Partner' of the Bulls.
Fans can now bid on game-worn jerseys in real-time during select games, with the auctions set to commence this season. The jerseys, which may also be signed, come with a digital certificate of authenticity powered by Fabricks technology, ensuring their provenance. MWS, founded in Amsterdam in 2017, initially focused on soccer and has expanded to work with over 300 partners globally, including major soccer clubs and federations.
Why It's Important?
This partnership signifies a significant expansion for MWS into the U.S. market, particularly within the NBA, one of the world's most prominent sports leagues. The collaboration with the Chicago Bulls, an iconic brand, enhances fan engagement by allowing them to participate in live auctions during games. This immersive experience could potentially increase the value of the jerseys, as fans are willing to pay more when bidding in the heat of the moment. The move also reflects a growing trend in sports memorabilia, where authenticity and real-time engagement are highly valued by collectors. The U.S. market, known for its robust collector culture, presents a lucrative opportunity for MWS to expand its reach and influence.
What's Next?
MWS plans to announce partnerships with at least four more NBA teams this year, further solidifying its presence in the U.S. sports market. The company aims to leverage its experience in the soccer domain to enhance fan engagement in basketball. As the partnership with the Bulls unfolds, MWS will likely explore additional opportunities to integrate its auction platform with other sports and teams, potentially expanding its offerings to include more sports memorabilia. The success of this initiative could prompt other sports leagues and teams to adopt similar models, enhancing the overall fan experience and creating new revenue streams.
