Jazwares, the company behind Squishmallows, is partnering with Vanderbilt Athletics for a basketball event at Memorial Gymnasium in Nashville. This marks the first time Squishmallows will be featured at a college sporting event. The collaboration will take place during two games: Vanderbilt men’s basketball against Georgia on February 25 and women’s basketball against Alabama on February 26.
During both games, the first 5,000 fans will receive exclusive plush toys—Sawyer and Reza Squishmallows dressed in Vanderbilt apparel. There will also be limited edition versions with special details. Attendees can participate in pregame activities themed around Squishmallows and enjoy entertainment inspired by the plush brand throughout the games. Mascots Cam the Cat and Mr. Commodore are scheduled to appear together on court.
The idea for this partnership was developed by students from Vanderbilt’s Owen Graduate School of Management, guided by Assistant Professor Mario Avila. Jeremy Padawer, chief brand officer at Jazwares and a Vanderbilt alumnus, said, “The Squishmallows and Vanderbilt collaboration started exactly where the best ideas do: on campus. Vanderbilt students brought this concept to us, and we immediately knew it had the magic to become something bigger. As a Vanderbilt alumnus, it’s especially meaningful to help bring this takeover to life and celebrate school pride in a fresh, authentic way, on and off the court.”
Candice Storey Lee, Vice Chancellor for Athletics and University Affairs and Athletic Director at Vanderbilt University, stated, “We’re excited to introduce something truly unique for our fans. The fact that this partnership began on our campus and connects back to a Vanderbilt alumnus makes it even more special. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and Commodore spirit.”
Fans attending these games have an opportunity to receive unique memorabilia linked to both Vanderbilt University and Squishmallows history. Tickets are available at vucommodores.com.
More information about Jazwares’ partnership with Vanderbilt University can be found on their social media channels or their website https://www.jazwares.com. Updates about Squishmallows are available through their official site Squishmallows.com as well as their social media accounts.
