Best Coke ever?
I saw a couple of different activations from Coca-Cola around the city (including a real-life 3D bracket in front of my hotel), but the company’s biggest spot was at Tourney Town. Fans could work their way through a basketball-themed obstacle course to win Texas and basketball-themed koozies, as well as a testing station for the new Coke Zero Sugar. Though the company may say it’s the best Coke ever, I’m happy with my Diet Coke.
Powerade also had a large activation next door, but I steered clear after hearing what sounded like a fake drill sergeant yelling for pushups.
Bonded by ball
Wilson, the official basketball of the tournament, gave fans a chance to help design a new ball centered on the 50th anniversary of Title IX. Complete with a colorful mural, Wilson emphasized that basketball fans are “bonded by ball.”
On Thursday evening, the company also put on a panel in partnership with Rising Coaches around Wilson’s gender equity commitment. Hosted by HighlightHER founder Ari Chambers, the free event featured WNBA player Natasha Cloud and student athletes from Northwestern and Nebraska speaking with Amanda Lamb, Wilson’s vp of brand, and Carly Thibault-DuDonis, coach at Fairfield University.
Road to Final Four
Nissan capitalized on its “Road to Final Four” campaign over the weekend with the Nissan Thrill Court at Tourney Town, featuring the Ariya as the official vehicle of March Madness. The activation had an interactive buzzer-beater shooting game, a claw vending machine and vehicle displays. There were also talent appearances from the likes of Sheryl Swoopes, Cheryl Miller and Candace Parker.
Playa Society
