Coach Leverages WNBA Record 2025 Draft Attendance for Multiyear Partnership

Coach and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) have launched a multiyear partnership centered on empowering self-expression through sports and fashion, positioning Coach as the league’s official luxury handbag partner. Announced on April 14, 2025, the collaboration aligns with Coach’s “Courage to Be Real” initiative, encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic identities. The deal highlights the WNBA’s cultural influence as the league breaks viewership, attendance, and expansion records.

Colie Edison, WNBA Chief Growth Officer: “This partnership celebrates the intersection of sport and personal style”.

The partnership debuted at the WNBA Draft 2025in New York City, where Coach hosted the Orange Carpet event for incoming rookies. It will extend to the AT&T WNBA All-Star 2025 in Indianapolis, blending basketball with fashion and music. Coach becomes the presenting partner of WNBA Pride, the league’s pioneering LGBTQ+ platform launched in 2014. The collaboration includes nationally televised Pride games and the third season of the Pride Is Lovecontent series on the WNBA App.

Joon Silverstein, Coach CMO: “We’re excited to support athletes who inspire audiences to embrace who they are”.

Coach is collaborating with five top prospects known for their distinctive styles:

• Paige Bueckers (UConn)
• Hailey Van Lith (TCU)
• Aneesah Morrow (LSU)
• Kiki Iriafen (USC)
• Sonia Citron (Notre Dame).

The WNBA’s Growth Trajectory

The partnership arrives as the WNBA solidifies its status as a cultural and business leader. In 2024, the league secured a landmark $2.2 billion media rights deal and announced expansion teams in Toronto and Portland. Fast Company recently ranked the WNBA No. 4 on its 2025 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies, citing its focus on player-driven storytelling and community impact.

The collaboration underscores a shared vision for inclusivity and innovation, leveraging the WNBA’s platform to amplify Coach’s message of authenticity. With the league poised for continued growth, this partnership reflects the expanding influence of women’s sports in shaping global culture.