‘Fundraising slam dunk’
Washington Wizards x National Kidney Foundation Tournament
How we helped an NBA team & an established nonprofit pull off an unforgettable event.
THE CONTEXT
Bringing a high-energy, competitive basketball tournament to life is one thing. Making it a powerful fundraiser for a vital cause is another. The National Kidney Foundation and Washington Wizards needed a way to generate excitement, drive sign-ups, and maximize fundraising for their annual 3-on-3 tournament. The event offered participants the unforgettable opportunity to play on the Wizards’ home court at Capital One Arena, meet players, and attend a game — but first, we had to get the word out in a way that resonated.
THE WORK
We helped develop the tournament’s brand identity, storytelling, and fundraising content, ensuring that every touchpoint — from promotional materials to digital campaigns — felt as dynamic as the game itself. Our approach balanced competitive spirit with community impact, emphasizing not only the thrill of playing on an NBA court but also the larger mission of supporting kidney health and research. With engaging visuals, compelling messaging, and a clear call to action, we helped drive tournament registrations, donations, and overall awareness, ensuring that participants felt like they weren’t just signing up for a game. They were stepping up for a cause.
WHAT WE DID:
Brand discovery and exploration
Tournament branding and narrative work
Content, strategy, PR work
Day-of operations
THE OUTCOME
The tournament was a huge success, drawing players, fans, and donors alike for an unforgettable day of competition and camaraderie. With strong turnout, increased fundraising, and an energized community, the event cemented itself as an annual tradition —proving that basketball has the power to bring people together on and off the court.
THE TAKEAWAY
Great events are about more than just participation — they’re about purpose. By blending sports, storytelling, and strategic fundraising content, we helped turn a basketball tournament into a powerful movement for kidney health awareness and support. Now, the tournament isn’t just a game. It’s a true game-changer.
