The 2018 BBVA Compass Iron City Showdown featured the Houston Rockets against the Memphis Grizzlies in an exhibition game at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama. It was the first NBA game played in Birmingham in 12 years. The game needed a partner to raise awareness of the event, support ticket sales and provide an enhanced gameday experience for fans on site and at home through social media activation and engagement.

Markstein developed a multi-channel social media strategy to raise awareness and attract a sell-out crowd to the BBVA Compass Iron City Showdown. Leading up to the game, Markstein utilized a blend of informative, engaging and fun content, delivered through organic channels, influencer partnerships and paid media campaigns.

Over a five-month period, Markstein managed all social media activity for the game, including the launch of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels; content strategy, creation, implementation; and gameday activation. On gameday, our on-site team captured the experience through a mix of content including photos, live videos, graphics, Facebook and Instagram stories, and influencer interaction to maximize engagement throughout the event.

By coordinating ticket giveaways with influencers, Markstein reached nearly 100,000 fans, resulting in nearly 2,200 total engagements and 212,000+ impressions over the five-month period. With paid media, Markstein targeted adults aged 18-64 and generated more than 2 million impressions and nearly 10,000 clicks. Markstein’s pre-game approach resulted in a sellout of the BBVA Compass Iron City Showdown: 16,775 tickets and over 700 credentials.