In a groundbreaking NBA-WNBA alliance, the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Wings have joined forces to empower girls and make pro basketball history. Since 2015, the two franchises have admired each other, attending games and collaborating on community outreach.
Starting with Sunday’s home game against Chicago, the Wings jerseys will proudly display a prominent Mavericks-sponsored patch featuring the Girls Empowered by Mavericks (GEM) logo. But this partnership goes beyond a logo; it involves a deep alliance with Wings players and coaches engaging in GEM’s year-round programming, benefiting 3,000 North Texas girls annually.
While the financial terms remain undisclosed, sources suggest the Mavericks’ investment is in the seven figures. Mavs CEO Cynt Marshall described it as a “match made in heaven,” emphasizing their commitment to the Wings and the shared values of empowering girls.
This historic collaboration sets a new standard, as only five of the WNBA’s 12 franchises are partnered with NBA teams. The Wings’ independence makes this alliance even more exceptional.
GEM, established in 2021, focuses on engaging, inspiring, and empowering girls through physical activity. With basketball camps, health clinics, financial empowerment courses, and leadership workshops, the program has made a significant impact, reaching around 5,000 girls.
The Wings’ star guard, Arike Ogunbowale, has already participated in GEM events, and going forward, the entire Wings organization will fully integrate with GEM, uniting their efforts to empower girls throughout North Texas.
Mavericks’ CEO Cynt Marshall and Wings’ President Greg Bibb initiated this partnership in early 2020, envisioning a formal relationship focused on female empowerment and equality. Although COVID-19 initially disrupted plans, the collaboration between the two franchises gradually grew stronger.
A special announcement will take place on Sunday during the game against Chicago, with GEM serving as the presenting sponsor for the Inspiring Women’s Weekend game.
This historic alliance between the NBA and WNBA teams demonstrates the value the Mavericks place on girls, women, and sports. By supporting the GEM program, they strive to inspire future generations and pave the way for more opportunities in basketball and beyond.
The Mavericks’ investment in empowering girls and the philanthropic partnership with the Wings exemplify their commitment to making a positive impact in the community. As women’s sports continue to grow, this alliance serves as a powerful example of promoting equality and empowering young girls to pursue their dreams.
With the shared passion for basketball and dedication to uplifting girls in North Texas, the Mavericks and Wings hope to ignite a spark in young minds, encouraging them to aspire to greatness both on and off the court. The future looks bright as they continue to write a new chapter in the history of pro basketball.