‘My Hero Academia’ Heads to the NBA with Fashion Collab

Anime and sports align in new collection.

License Global

June 28, 2023

2 Min Read
Promotional image for “My Hero Academia” merch for NBA fans.
Promotional image for “My Hero Academia” merch for NBA fans.Crunchyroll

“My Hero Academia,” TOHO animation, Crunchyroll, the National Basketball Association (NBA), NBALAB and HYPERFLY have joined forces to create a fashion collaboration for “My Hero Academia” fans passionate about the NBA, resulting in a line of streetwear for fans. Exclusive items from the collaboration will debut at NBA Con in Las Vegas July 7-9, with the full range of merchandise launching later this fall. 

“There’s an incredible and authentic synergy between anime and sports, and we couldn’t be more excited to join forces with the NBALAB, HYPERFLY and TOHO animation to bring the beloved characters from ‘My Hero Academia’ to the world of basketball,” says Rahul Purini, president, Crunchyroll. “This one-of-a-kind collection will truly amp up basketball enthusiasts and anime fans alike.” 

Through the collaboration, fans will see characters from “My Hero Academia” prominently featured on newly designed merchandise for nine NBA teams: The Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks and Portland Trail Blazers. 

A selection of items from the collaboration will be exclusively available to purchase at NBA Con, a first-of-its-kind event held at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas July 7-9 that blends the interests of NBA players and fans into a celebration of the best of hoops culture. HYPERFLY’s initial collection will feature All Might, the hero from “My Hero Academia,” on heavy-weight T-shirts celebrating four teams: the Warriors, Lakers, Knicks and Bulls. 

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HYPERFLY’s retail launch featuring All Might on tees, hoodies and satin jackets will be available for purchase this fall in the U.S. and Canada at the Crunchyroll Store, NBAStore.com, LIDS.com and HYPERFLY.com and other approved vendors. Merchandise will also be available in Japan on the NBAStore.jp. 

“As two iconic brands with global reach and passionate fan bases, this partnership signifies an exciting moment that merges the worlds of basketball and anime, creating an exciting fusion of sports and storytelling,” says Pascal Pakter, president, co-founder, HYPERFLY. “The NBALAB has always embraced innovation, diversity and cultural crossovers, and joining forces with the NBALAB and ‘My Hero Academia’ aligns with our commitment to honoring Asian culture and engaging fans through unique and captivating experiences. ‘My Hero Academia’s’ inspiring narrative of heroism, teamwork and perseverance resonates with the core values of the NBA, making this collaboration a natural fit.” 

Related:Bioworld’s Atsuko Drops 'My Hero Academia' x Hello Kitty Merch

About the Author(s)

License Global

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