2026 WNBA All-Star Weekend
ION returned to the WNBA All-Star Weekend in 2026, bringing the energy of Friday Nights on ION off-screen and IRL at WNBA Live in Chicago.
With 30,000+ fans in a crowded field of brand activations, ION focused on what it could own: the energy, rituals, and excitement of Friday Night game night. The 20x20 footprint invited fans to test their vertical and leave their mark on an interactive jump wall, capture social-ready content at a spinning basketball photo moment, and grab free giveaways from a branded concession stand. Appearances from Chicago Sky center Kamila Kardosa and LA Sparks point guard Rae Burrell in addition to some of the league’s beloved mascots gave fans a chance to get up close with the players and personalities they love.
To give the footprint a distinct visual identity, ION partnered with artist Alex Alpert, who created a custom mural inspired by the WNBA and its cities, extending the creative into a one-of-a-kind sneaker giveaway fans could enter onsite by following ION’s newest social handle, @IONGAMEDAY.
Against a sea of tech-heavy activations, ION intentionally went tactile and analog. Simple, high-energy interactions kept fans moving through the space, while bold visual moments and a high-traffic location helped the footprint stand out organically throughout the weekend.
The experience welcomed 1,971 visitors and generated 727+ data capture entries, turning Friday Nights on ION into a tangible fan experience and strengthening the network’s presence in women’s sports.
Agency: Tinsel Experiential Design
