The women’s professional basketball league in North America, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and Opill, the first-ever over-the-counter birth control pill in the United States, have forged a multi-year partnership to empower women to manage their reproductive health.
This collaboration leverages the WNBA’s established platform and star athletes to raise awareness about Opill and educate young women about accessible healthcare options.
The partnership kicks off with Opill serving as an associate partner of the 2024 WNBA Draft on April 15 in Brooklyn, New York.
A cornerstone of this initiative will be educational programs targeted directly at students on college campuses across the country. The WNBA and Opill will collaborate to design and implement these programs.
Additionally, educational events will be hosted to inform fans about Opill as a new birth control option and emphasize the importance of accessible healthcare for women.
Leila Bahbah, Perrigo U.S. Women’s Health Brand Lead, said, “Opill is changing the game in reproductive health, just like the WNBA’s game-changing role in sports and pop culture. Building upon our shared commitment to foster equitable access and to increase health education, the goal of this partnership is to prioritize dialogue and resources in support of women’s reproductive health.”
Colie Edison, WNBA Chief Growth Officer, said, “At the WNBA, we are committed to addressing issues that matter to the players, and expanding access to reproductive healthcare is one of those key issues. It’s great to be working with a partner whose values align and authentically integrates into the health equity work our players are dedicated to.”
Opill, a subsidiary of Perrigo Company plc, is the first-ever over-the-counter birth control pill available in the US. Approved in July 2023, Opill contains progestin, a hormone that prevents pregnancy. This readily available option is accessible without a prescription at pharmacies, convenience stores, and even online retailers.
The WNBA is experiencing a surge in popularity, as evidenced by recent partnerships with major broadcasters like TNT Sports (UK & Ireland) and brands like La Crema, Glossier, and Dream11.