- The Washington Times - Wednesday, June 19, 2013

The Obama administration has reportedly tried to enlist the NBA in helping it sell Obamacare to the American people.

It’s unclear whether a potential marketing partnership would put big-name players at the center of ad campaigns or if it would be as simple as putting the NBA trademark on marketing materials, Politico first reported today.

People can begin signing up for Obamacare in October, with the new insurance coverage kicking in next year. Many have speculated that the enrollment campaigns would benefit from a celebrity endorsement or partnership with a major sports league.

“You just can’t be a smoker and be obese or heavy … and be a basketball player. These folks are kind of the picture of youth and health, and in some ways, that’s the target audience,” said Jon Kingsdale, who oversaw the implementation of the Massachusetts health law — which was boosted by the Boston Red Sox, Politico reported.

Officials with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services declined to comment on talks with the NBA, Politico said. “We are speaking with a wide range of potential partners and organizations about our efforts to inform Americans of the opportunity to enroll in quality, affordable coverage in the health insurance marketplaces,” an agency spokesman said.

The NBA declined to comment.


SEE ALSO: HURT: Obamacare has federal work force panicked


• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.

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