Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO (August 21, 2024) — As part of Mattel, Inc.’s partnership with Athlife, Inc. to create branded game day activations at sports arenas nationwide, the Chicago Sky will celebrate women athletes by introducing the WNBA’s first-ever Barbie-themed game on Friday, August 30, at 6:30 p.m. CT against the Indiana Fever at Wintrust Arena.

The Chicago Sky expressed enthusiasm for welcoming Barbie to the arena with a shared goal of championing women in sports and encouraging girls to pursue their athletic passions. The event coincides with Barbie's 65th anniversary and aims to remind fans that they can be anything. The Barbie Game Night™ will feature activities and promotions including fan content, giveaways, and family-friendly activations.

“The Chicago Sky are thrilled to be the first WNBA team to partner with Barbie, the world’s most iconic and diverse doll brand that reminds girls they can be anything,” said Tania Haladner, Chicago Sky’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Barbie aligns perfectly with the Sky’s mission to empower girls and women to explore limitless possibilities.”

Presented by BMO and supported by Lincoln Road, the event will include a pre-game panel discussion on investing in women's sports and celebrating women in leadership. Top women leaders and Girls in the Game will participate in this discussion.

Additional activities include a youth basketball clinic hosted by YMCA of Metro Chicago at HER Court on August 14th. The court was designed by Crystal Zapata, emphasizing community dedication.

Fans attending on August 30th can expect various themed giveaways such as custom Barbie x Chicago Sky sherpa belt bags or Hawaiian shirts for early arrivals. Concourse activations will feature photo opportunities with a Barbie backdrop and hair braiding stations from Jamaican Mango & Lime.

In-game entertainment includes performances from guest DJ Nosike and recognition of Ann Drake from Lincoln Road for her contributions toward advancing women's roles in society.

BMO will also highlight behind-the-scenes content featuring women of the Chicago Sky through social media contests offering prizes like tickets and merchandise.

Mattel is recognized globally for its portfolio of brands including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, among others. More information about Mattel can be found at mattel.com.

Lincoln Road Enterprises focuses on advancing women's leadership across various sectors including global supply chains, engineering, technology, infrastructure design, space exploration among others. Details about their initiatives are available at lincoln-road.com.

The Chicago Sky were founded in 2005 as an independently owned professional women's basketball team playing at Wintrust Arena. For more details visit sky.wnba.com or call 866.SKY.WNBA.

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