Indiana Pacers partner with local tech start-up Spokenote as jersey patch sponsor

The NBA’s Indiana Pacers have announced a partnership with local tech start-up Spokenote as their official jersey patch sponsor.

In a groundbreaking move, the Pacers become the first NBA franchise to incorporate a QR code-type patch on their jerseys. Spokenote’s patch features a unique code that, when scanned, directs fans to exclusive Pacers content online.

Effective from their upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks on January 3, the Spokenote patch will be a prominent feature on all Pacers jerseys throughout the regular season and, if the team qualifies, into the post-season.

Todd Taylor, President and Chief Commercial Officer of parent company Pacers Sports & Entertainment, emphasised that the innovative product from the Indiana-based brand will provide a new avenue for the team to engage with fans.

“We are extremely proud to assist a local start-up on its journey to becoming a widely known consumer brand,” Taylor said.

Spokenote founder John Weschler also shared his excitement, stating, “Spokenote is thrilled to join the Pacers, one of basketball’s hottest and most exciting young teams, as their new jersey patch partner, and we look forward to working alongside them to identify new ways to engage fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and beyond.”

Previously, the Pacers featured global telecommunications firm Motorola as their jersey patch sponsor from 2018 until the conclusion of the 2023 season.

With this partnership, only three NBA franchises remain without a jersey patch sponsor for the ongoing 2023-24 NBA season. Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies and Portland Trail Blazers are currently seeking sponsors, with the Clippers and Grizzlies concluding their last partnerships at the end of the 2023 season, and the Trail Blazers without a patch sponsor since the conclusion of the 2022 season.

This development follows the November 2023 NBA patch announcement, where the Atlanta Hawks unveiled the YMCA of Metro Atlanta as their jersey patch sponsor, showcasing the continued integration of corporate partnerships within the league.