Business
Minnesota Timberwolves Set to Land Lucrative Jersey Patch Sponsor After Record-breaking Season
The Minnesota Timberwolves have witnessed a remarkable surge in their brand following their impressive journey to the NBA‘s Western Conference finals, marking a historic achievement for the franchise.
The team’s revenue has soared to new heights, reflecting a substantial increase driven by merchandise sales, ticket revenue, and sponsorships.
Chief Operating Officer Ryan Tanke revealed that the upcoming season holds immense potential for the Timberwolves to secure a new jersey patch sponsor as their deal with Aura, a Boston-based identity protection company, nears its expiration.
The NBA jersey patch sponsorship landscape has evolved significantly, with deals now commanding millions annually and averaging $10 million for the upcoming 2024-2025 season.
Tanke anticipates announcing the new sponsor by the end of summer, given the heightened interest in the team due to its success and expanding fan base.
The Timberwolves boast the largest fan base by the number of counties, stretching beyond Minnesota into Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and western Wisconsin, as per data from Vivid Seats.
The Iowa Wolves, the team’s NBA G League affiliate based in Des Moines, further broadens the Timberwolves’ reach.
With an expanding out-of-metro fan base, the Timberwolves are experiencing a surge in ticket sales, particularly for weekend games which attract visitors to the Twin Cities.
Target Center witnessed an impressive 41 consecutive sellouts this past season, signifying a resurgence in fan engagement and support not seen since the team’s inception.
The team’s commitment to fan growth is evident in the significant rise in full and half-season ticket passes for the upcoming season, showcasing a 3,500 increase compared to the previous year.
The Timberwolves are on track to surpass 10,000 full season ticket memberships for the first time in over 30 years, with projections nearing 11,000 by the new season.
Additionally, quarter-season ticket memberships offering playoff priority access are currently available for interested fans.
As part of an extensive renovation investment at Target Center, the team is transforming the former Cargo Food Authority into the Backcourt Club, a premium seating area for 500 patrons, with upgrades planned for the Lexus Courtside Club as well.
Tanke emphasized the team’s ongoing efforts to double its fan base over a five-year period, with this season’s success contributing significantly towards that goal.