Hennessy proudly announced an expansion of its partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA), which makes it the first global spirit partner in the franchise’s history.
This ushers in a new chapter in the relationship, with a synergy that celebrates everything that pushes the spirit of the game forward. As a brand that’s deeply entrenched in urban culture globally, with a passion for game-changers – those who Never Stop. Never Settle – the relationship is a perfect fit with Hennessy’s long-standing ethos.
To celebrate locally, Hennessy has partnered with TV personality and basketball fanatic Scoop Makhathini to bring courtside to South African fans with his popular lifestyle show Catching Waves.
Over the next few months, the Catching Waves series will feature a star-studded celebrity line-up going head-to-head in a Hennessy x NBA series of basketball challenges. In addition they break down some of the motivators that help them to forge forward and live the Never Stop. Never Settle attitude in everything they do.
Season Guests include:
- TV Personality and Actress Pearl Thusi
- Multi-talented choreographer, dancer and actress Bontle Modiselle
- Award winning TV presenter, model and sneaker fanatic Kim Jayde
- Hiphop Artist FLVME
- Photographic genius Young Stilo
- Hiphop Artist 25K
- Culture Connoisseur MKay Frash
- Basketball Sensei Mogal ‘Juice’ Ndlovu
Alongside this, there will also be interactive Hennessy x NBA pop-up activations at select locations within Johannesburg, where fans will have an opportunity to watch Scoop and fellow guests battle it out on court. Fans will also be able to show off their skills and shoot their shot for the chance to win exclusive Hennessy x NBA merchandise.
A trailblazer in the urban culture space who has a strong affiliation with both brands, Scoop has a deep passion for the game.
‘I am honoured and excited to be chosen as the SA ambassador for the Hennessy x NBA campaign. I have always loved basketball – it’s a sport that has provided me with many great life lessons over the years, both on and off the court. Through this partnership, we have a real opportunity to showcase the talent we have in this country and to celebrate South Africa’s vibrant basketball culture. From adopting the fashion and style to mentions by hip hop artists and the burgeoning movement of local basketball players, South Africans have welcomed the sport with a lot of enthusiasm’ stated presenter Scoop Makhathini.
‘We are looking forward to partnering with Scoop – a fellow South African who embodies our 250 year ethos of Never Stop. Never Settle. As a game-changer in the urban culture space for over 14 years, as well as an avid basketball support, he was an obvious choice for us.’ adds Brand Manager for Hennessy SA, Khomotso Ledwaba.
Julie Nollet, Hennessy global CMO concludes by saying that the NBA is more than basketball, and Hennessy is more than cognac, ‘We represent global communities, and this partnership empowers us to support a game and culture that brings people together through entertainment and camaraderie despite the current challenges faced by fans around the world. We share the NBA’s core values of integrity, teamwork, respect and innovation, which are more powerful than ever as we work to inspire and unite people across the globe. Both brands share a drive to push beyond the expected, a respect for heritage and dedication to craft and that’s why we are perfect partners.’
To celebrate this iconic partnership, fans around the country will be able to purchase the new exclusive Hennessy VS Limited Edition gift box to enjoy during the 2021 NBA playoffs.
To learn more about the 2020-21 NBA season with Hennessy, visit Hennessy.com or @HennessySA on Facebook.