Nike Forming HS Super Conference, EYBL Scholastic

Written By Bryce J. Tarrant

A crucial component to Nike’s basketball marketing plan just received an upgrade. The apparel brand’s grassroot hoops platform, Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL), has just announced a partnership with the National Intercollegiate Basketball Conference (NIBC). Considered the top high school basketball league in the country, NIBC and Nike will collectively form a super conference for boys basketball that will tip off in the 2023-24 season.

The NIBC has been a very competitive league over the last three years, showcasing the nation’s top talent through their collection of high school institutions committed to elite national basketball competition. Notable schools in their league included, Brewster Academy (N.H.) and Monteverde Academy (FL) and next season will welcome additional schools such as Canyon International Academy (AZ). All EYBL Scholastic team rosters consist of four year high school basketball players, students who are post-grads or fifth year seniors are ineligible to play.

News of the partnership makes sense for both sides. The rise of high school basketball for boys and girls is key to strengthening the pipeline Nike has with elite NCAA institutions. EYBL Scholastic will continue to showcase some of the best talent in the country, but the super conference formation raises the level of competition and may encourage students to consider the variety of notable college programs that boast Nike affiliations. Obviously, there are growing platforms showing early success such as Overtime Elite and promising situations within the NBA G League, but the connection athletes see with Nike and potential college programs will truly make them consider all options.

The 2023-24 season will feature 84 games, approximately 30 of which will be televised live across ESPN platforms and 15 national events.