NBA fans in Qatar, this is the best news ever!
Not one, but two official NBA stores are set to open in Doha during the 2016-2017 season!
The stores will open as part of a new partnership between the NBA and Al Mana Fashion Group, which already manages brands such as Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander McQueen, Zara, Reebok and many more within Qatar and other GCC countries.
However, residents in other GCC countries shouldn't lose heart.
A statement from the NBA explained that additional stores are planned for Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
"This long term project cements the NBA’s commitment to grow our footprint across the Middle East," Vandana Balachandar, vice president of global merchandising for NBA EMEA, said. "As the demand for the NBA continues to grow in the Middle East, our partnership with Al Mana Fashion Group will allow us to provide a comprehensive assortment of NBA merchandise while bringing the official NBA shopping experience to our fans in the region."
Although official NBA products could be purchased online in Qatar, the physical stores are a response to rising demand within the region.
"With basketball being one of the fastest growing categories in sports retail in the region, we are very excited to be working with such an iconic brand as we build an exciting new chapter in our illustrious legacy in the Middle East," Andrew Fairall, general manager of Al Mana Fashion Group’s sports division, said, according to Doha News .