The NBA continues to break records, reaching $1.62 billion in total team sponsorship revenue for the 2024–25 season, an impressive 8% year-over-year increase. Among the fastest-growing sectors fueling this momentum is Healthcare, which added $8.2 million in new investment, making it the league’s second-largest category by sponsorship spend growth. But this rise isn’t just about numbers, it reflects purpose-driven partnerships, community wellness initiatives, and strategic long-term plays aimed at building fan trust and deepening local ties.

From Logos to Leadership: Healthcare’s Deep Integration

That $8.2 million lift is powered by headline deals like Kaiser Permanente’s partnership with the LA Clippers, where the brand not only became the team’s official healthcare partner but also secured naming rights to the Clippers’ training center. Similarly, Memorial Hermann’s naming rights agreement with the Houston Rockets’ training facility underscores the premium nature of today’s healthcare investments. These aren’t just sideline signs—they’re deep operational integrations that link healthcare brands directly with athlete performance and fan wellness.

Widening the Roster: 200+ Brands and Counting

Today, over 200 healthcare brands invest in NBA sponsorships or media. On average, each team maintains three healthcare partnerships, prioritizing quality over volume. Among top spenders:

• Kaiser Permanente leads with four deals, including with the Clippers and Sacramento Kings.
  
  
• HSS – Hospital for Special Surgery and Ozempic follow with two deals each.
  
  

Regional Power Plays: The Indiana Pacers Set the Pace

Some teams are leaning in further. The Indiana Pacers lead the league with nine healthcare partnerships, followed by the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Phoenix Suns with six each. The Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Pelicans hold five apiece. The Pacers’ lead reflects a targeted regional approach—where healthcare sponsorships act as both a brand vehicle and a community connector.

A Strong Showing on Social

Healthcare brands generated 9 million engagements through branded social content with NBA teams and the league—demonstrating meaningful resonance with fans. For context:

• Tech brands: 20M engagements
  
  
• Auto brands: 17M engagements
  
  
• Healthcare brands: 9M engagements

While healthcare content tends to skew more conservative than flashier categories, it holds a solid mid-tier digital performance, reinforcing its relevance in today’s wellness-focused culture.