WNBA Players Get “Priority Pass” Airport Lounge Memberships To Help Ease Travel Woes
During the 2023 WNBA season, airport experience company Collinson will provide players membership in its “Priority Pass” program. The pass “provides a comfortable space and a much-needed respite for players while waiting on a pre- or postgame flight.”
The WNBA has a history of extreme travel challenges due to players flying coach. The pass should give players some relief during a busy season. In addition, teams will have at least one security person traveling with them during the season.
From Priority Pass and the player’s union release:
From complimentary pre-flight refreshments and Wi-Fi to spa treatments, gaming experiences, sleeping areas and more, Priority Pass lounges have evolved to keep pace with the ever-changing landscape of travel. And, with the busy travel schedules of world-class athletes like the professional women basketball players, Priority Pass is transforming and enriching their time spent at the airport.
“The comfort and convenience offered by Priority Pass will undoubtedly enhance our travel experience, allowing us to focus on performing at our highest level on the basketball court. I’m hopeful other partners will see this as a call to action and provide similar access and resources during our season,” said Nneka Ogwumike, WNBPA President.
Playing 40 games a season, 20 home and 20 away, these women are superstar professionals, and this partnership will ensure all the league’s 144 players are comfortable and connected while travelling. Since the teams fly commercially rather than privately or chartered, the advantages of the Priority Pass to players will be both mentally and physically valuable. Sheryl Pflaum, President of Collinson, Americas, notes the importance of the partnership and the benefits it will bring to teams, “Priority Pass will have the opportunity to directly impact players and their travel experience, ultimately enabling these athletes to play at an even higher level, while helping to advance women’s sports and enhance the lives of these incredible role models.”
“This partnership with Priority Pass is a significant step in the right direction. It’s the first time a partner has come to talk directly with the players about providing them with added comfort and resources during travel,” said Terri Jackson, Executive Director of the WNBPA.
