If there’s one thing few people argue about in the world of sports, it’s that mascots rule. Even the ones that are literally just a teenager jumping around in a cheap costume have the ability to make even the grouchiest fan smile. One of the biggest names in the game is Blooper, the Atlanta Braves’ lovable spokes…thing. Though relatively new to the world of mascots, his antics have skyrocketed him into the ranks of Mr. Met or those weird-looking presidents that run across the field at Nationals games.

That’s why, as Cortland Apartment Communities’ agency and mascot enthusiasts, we jumped at the chance to work with Blooper. Even better, we got to pair Cortie and Blooper as the best of frienemies. But let’s back up for a second.

As part of Cortland’s partnership with the Atlanta Braves, we were given the opportunity to film on-field content to complement signage around Truist Park. Naturally, we wanted to bring together two legendary mascots in some way. But how? We tossed around ideas: having them go on a date, having Cortie run the bases, even bringing in other mascots for a “training day.” Eventually, we landed on Cortland’s tagline: Next Level Living. And since Blooper represents Next Level Baseball, it was time to see who was truly the most Next Level.

Through a series of wacky challenges, Blooper and Cortie tried to one-up each other—until Cortie finally emerged victorious. Why? Because he lives at Cortland. Also because he can do a pretty cool handstand walk.

The video not only lives online at cortievsblooper.com, but imagery from the shoot also made its way onto signage around Truist Park, where passersby can pose with Blooper and Cortie.

From on-field video to park signage to shareable social moments, the Cortie vs. Blooper matchup created a cohesive story that strengthened Cortland’s visibility with Braves fans while reinforcing its own brand promise. That’s the kind of work we call Next Level.

Let’s dive into something that’s been hot tea—the WNBA and how it’s flipping the script on sports marketing. Here at Digital Yalo, where brand meets soul to spark growth, we’re all about trailblazing with genuine human connections. And that’s what has us evaluating how the WNBA is utilizing its transcendent moment (hello, Caitlin Clark), and absolutely crushing it.

Players as the Real MVPs

Once upon a time, pro athletes seemed almost like distant superheroes, akin to fictional characters. We heard their stories, sure, but they were always through someone else’s lens—never straight from the source. Basketball, in particular, has long been a superstar dominated sport. And to that end, the WNBA is taking the proverbial ball and advancing it. They’re pushing their players front and center, letting them be the storytellers. Seeing these athletes show their real selves—both the struggles and the triumphs—has humanized them, and the league they represent. And as a brand, humanization can be transcendent when it comes to nurturing an audience.

Digital Is the New Hardwood

The WNBA isn’t just stepping up its game on the court; it’s going heavy into digital off of it. With a revamped app and a fresh website, they’ve made it easy for fans to catch up on all the action and connect with their favorite players.

Offseason? More Like On-Season

What’s really cool is how the WNBA keeps the ball rolling even off the court. They’ve turned the offseason into a prime time to keep fans engaged with marketing magic. It’s like they’re saying, “Hey, don’t forget about us!” And why would we? They keep giving us reasons to stay tuned.

Beyond the Game

But it’s not all about plays and points. The WNBA is also scoring big in community and cultural impact. They’re not just playing games, they’re making statements and standing for something. At Yalo, we totally get that. We’re not just creating campaigns; we’re building movements. We believe in the power of brands to move hearts and minds, and it’s powerful to see the WNBA doing the same.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it. The WNBA isn’t just changing the game; they’re rewriting the rules. And here at Yalo, where we blend marketing with soulful storytelling, we’re all about that. Whether it’s on the basketball court or in a killer marketing campaign, it’s all about making those human connections that drive real growth.