The WNBA scores three new solution-oriented deals with CarMax, Priority Pass and Gaming Society

The GIST: It’s been a busy week for the WNBA. Fresh off a successful trip to Toronto and ahead of tonight’s season tip-off, the league and its players scored three solution-oriented deals with CarMax, Priority Pass, and Gaming Society this week.

CarMax: The used car retailer upgraded its agreement to become the league’s newest “Changemaker” sponsor on Wednesday. CarMax stays on as the WNBA’s opening weekend presenting partner but will increase its visibility across marquee events and plans to help boost the league’s presence.

• The brand will sponsor a WNBA League Pass free trial that runs until May 28th, as well as a digital content series about the players. CarMax will also assist athletes with media training and networking. Honk if you love an upgrade.

Priority Pass: A day later, the WNBPA inked a deal with airport lounge access program Priority Pass to offer every WNBA player access to relevant perks like sleeping areas and spa treatments. WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike says she’s hopeful others “will see this [partnership] as a call to action and provide similar access and resources.”

Gaming Society: The sports betting platform’s WNBA prediction game returned for its second season yesterday, complete with a new chat feature and updates during live games. It originally launched midway through 2022 and recorded 17K-plus total game plays, logged 4.7 games played per user, and averaged 4.5 minutes per user.

Zooming out: From media coverage to charter flights (or a lack thereof), the WNBA’s problems sometimes earn just as much press as its standout athletes. This week’s deals address some of those concerns and simultaneously earn each brand goodwill for their intentional women’s sports investments. Spending wisely.