In California, Shad Powers noted at the ATP/WTA BNP Paribas Open, the sign at the back of the Stadium Court that "usually says 'BNP Paribas -- The Bank for a Changing World' was altered to say 'Bank of the West -- BNP Paribas.'" This was an attempt to "remind viewers around the world, but particularly in California, that Bank of the West and its parent company BNP Paribas aren't just a large global bank catering to corporations, but also a local entity" (Palm Springs DESERT SUN, 3/19).
SLOPE STAR: In N.Y., Bill Pennington noted companies are "lining up to attach themselves" to Gold Medal-winning U.S. skier Mikaela Shiffrin. She has "remained loyal to her current sponsors," making appearances this past week at the Audi FIS World Cup Finals in Aspen for Oakley and pasta maker Barilla. Her presence as a "marketed entity may be in its infancy, especially approaching" next year's PyeongChang Games (N.Y. TIMES, 3/18). Shiffrin was profiled on "Nightline" last night, with ABC's Gloria Riviera noting the skier also has deals with Red Bull and watchmaker Longines. Shiffrin’s mother, Eileen, said there "will be 50 or 60 people at the bottom of a ski area waiting for autographs" from her daughter. Eileen: "It’s easy for us to accept too many appointments for her, appearances or obligations, and we’ve seen it backfire. It makes her so tired and then she can’t even ski” ("Nightline," ABC, 3/19).
THREE-HOUR TOUR: American Express on Saturday as part of its deal with the Warriors hosted the third "All For Dub Nation" watch party. The sold-out viewing of Bucks-Warriors, exclusively for hundreds of AmEx Card Members, took place on the S.S. Dub Nation, a private cruise that sailed on the S.F. Bay. Special appearances included former NBAers Muggsy Bogues and Adonal Foyle (AmEx).
