NEW YORK – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and Verizon announced a new leaguewide marquee partnership today, making the wireless provider the league’s most prominent marketing partner.  The WNBA’s historic 20^th season begins May 14.

As the marquee partner of the WNBA, Verizon branding will be prominently displayed on the front of ten WNBA team jerseys, including the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, Dallas Wings, Indiana Fever, Los Angeles Sparks, Minnesota Lynx, New York Liberty, Phoenix Mercury, Seattle Storm, and Washington Mystics.  These jerseys will officially debut during WNBA Tip-Off 2016 presented by Verizon on May 14.  The nine-day celebration (May 14-22) will feature 12 games, including the home opener of every team.

In addition, Verizon will be incorporated into game telecasts through courtside signage and in-game advertisements, along with a variety of cross-channel marketing and promotional elements – all designed to commemorate the WNBA’s 20^th season.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the WNBA, especially during a milestone like their 20^th year.  It’s a great way to connect our customers to the excitement these athletes bring every time they step foot onto the court,” said Verizon Chief Media Officer John Nitti. “These women always inspire, striving to push their performance to the next level and at Verizon that’s our focus, always pushing to deliver on our promise of ‘Better’ to our customers.”

Throughout the season, Verizon will also bring fans “WNBA Top 20 Moments presented by Verizon.” This digital program will highlight some of the most memorable moments from throughout the league’s history.

“We’re excited to tip off our landmark 20^th season with Verizon, an iconic brand and industry leader,” said WNBA President Lisa Borders. “This marquee partnership will enable Verizon and the WNBA to not only celebrate our continued growth, but also to connect fans to the game they love through new and creative opportunities.”

As part of the agreement, Verizon will become the presenting partner of WNBA Tip-Off, the WNBA Playoffs, and the WNBA Finals, and a partner of the WNBA Draft.  The brand will also serve as a partner of the annual WNBA Inspiring Women Luncheon – which recognizes individuals who have blazed new paths on the court, in the boardroom, and in the community – as well as one of the event’s key awards.

About Verizon Communications Inc.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) employs a diverse workforce of 177,700 and generated nearly $132 billion in 2015 revenues. Verizon operates America’s most reliable wireless network, with more than 112 million retail connections nationwide. Headquartered in New York, the company also provides communications and entertainment services over America’s most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers worldwide.

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About the WNBA

The WNBA – which features 12 teams and is the most successful women’s professional team sports league in the world – is a unique global sports property combining competition, sportsmanship, and entertainment value with its status as an icon for social change, achievement, and diversity.  The league, which counts Verizon as its leaguewide marquee partner, will begin its 20^th regular season in May 2016.

Through WNBA Cares, the WNBA is deeply committed to creating programs that improve the quality of life for all people, with a special emphasis on programs that promote a healthy lifestyle and positive body image, increase breast and women’s health awareness, support youth and family development, and focus on education.  For more information on the WNBA, log on to www.wnba.com.