Funko, the renowned pop culture collectibles company, has announced a partnership with the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) to create official Funko Pop! figures featuring some of the league’s brightest stars.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Funko’s expansion into sports collectibles, reflecting the growing popularity of women’s basketball.
A new era for WNBA collectibles
The initial lineup of WNBA-themed Funko Pop! figures includes A’ja Wilson, Angel Reese, Breanna Stewart, and Caitlin Clark. These athletes have not only excelled on the court but have also become influential figures in sports culture.
Their inclusion in Funko’s collection underscores the increasing recognition and celebration of women’s sports.
Funko’s CEO, Cynthia Williams, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “At Funko, we believe fandom has no boundaries, and we are incredibly excited about this relationship.”
She highlighted the rapid rise of the WNBA, the power of its players as engaging brand ambassadors, and its passionate fan base as key factors in this collaboration. Williams emphasized that bringing these trailblazing athletes to the Pop! lineup is about celebrating their energy, talent, and influence in women’s basketball.
Funko’s growth and WNBA’s rising popularity
Funko’s journey to prominence in the collectibles market has been remarkable. From a revenue of approximately $500 million in 2017, the company achieved over $1 billion in revenue by 2024. This growth is attributed to strategic partnerships and a diverse product range that resonates with a wide audience.
Similarly, the WNBA has experienced a surge in popularity. The league’s viewership numbers have soared, with 22 regular-season games averaging more than 1 million viewers last year.
This increase in fan engagement has translated into a growing demand for WNBA-related merchandise, including collectibles like the new Funko Pop! figures.
The WNBA Funko Pop! figures are set to go on pre-sale on May 14, ahead of the WNBA regular-season openers. This timing aligns with the league’s efforts to capitalize on its expanding fan base and the heightened interest in women’s sports.
As both Funko and the WNBA continue to grow, this partnership represents a significant step in the celebration and promotion of women’s athletics.
The collaboration between Funko and the WNBA not only provides fans with unique collectibles but also highlights the increasing visibility and appreciation of women’s sports. As the popularity of the WNBA continues to rise, partnerships like this play a crucial role in fostering a deeper connection between athletes and their supporters.
Read the full article here
