The National Basketball Association (NBA) has named Kelly Cooke head of content distribution and direct-to-consumer partnerships for Asia-Pacific. Cooke has more than 25 years of experience in streaming and traditional digital media across entertainment and sports, will be based in the league’s Singapore office and report to NBA Asia managing director Ramez Sheikh.
In her new role, Cooke will oversee the league’s linear and digital distribution and programming development efforts across Asia-Pacific, with a focus on growing its direct-to-consumer offerings through NBA League Pass, the league’s premium live game subscription service available on the NBA App.
Cooke joins the NBA after previously serving as head of distribution and brand partnerships for Moonbug Entertainment, where she led its channel distribution and content syndication. Prior to Moonbug Entertainment, Cooke held various media roles across Asia, including at The Walt Disney Company’s Media Distribution division in Hong Kong and at ESPN’s offices in Hong Kong and Singapore.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kelly to the NBA Asia team,” said Sheikh. “Kelly brings an unbelievable skill set, an outstanding track record across live sports and entertainment, and a deep familiarity with the region, making her an ideal fit for this key role. She will have an immediate impact on our business and leadership team by helping us navigate a rapidly evolving media landscape and contributing to our ambitious business growth and fan engagement plans across Asia-Pacific.”
“I am excited to join the NBA and contribute to its fantastic and growing team in Asia,” said Cooke. “The NBA is one of the most popular sports leagues and entertainment properties in the world, and I can’t wait to help drive its next phase of growth.”
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