“True fans don’t graduate after four or five years. They don’t transfer schools or get moved to the bench. Diehard fans can support teams through almost anything. They’re not in it for attention, accolades, or any other incentive aside from being a part of something bigger than themselves. They are driven by the belief that their team is special and the emotions they feel when they witness that team win games.  

Of course, this commercial would promote this team and this university. But most importantly, it would be a thank you to the many dedicated Duck fans who deserve recognition for the support that they’ve provided for decades. It’s a closing statement to a frankly underwhelming season. I’m sure you’re wondering why anyone would care to listen to that. What story is there to tell about a season that isn’t deemed successful? 

It’s a story about resilience, passion, and pride. It’s about the fans whose loyalty has never wavered. The fans who were at the games even when the team struggled. The everyday people in the community who pay their hard-earned money to be there because it makes them happy. 

Imagine the 80-year-old fan of Oregon Women’s Basketball who has come to games for the last four decades (we’ve met this person). Think about their reaction to being appreciated and represented by the team that they’ve loved for so long. I’m sure it would put a smile on their face. I’m confident that it would strengthen their fandom and convince them that this team cares about them.

The future of Oregon Women’s Basketball will include many losses and many wins. That’s how sports work. Your true fans will never give up on you because a season wasn’t perfect. They see the big picture. That’s what this commercial would be about. It doesn’t matter if it comes out at the end of the season, at the beginning, or any other time. Because it is timeless. And because people will always remember a heartfelt thank you.”