Colin Blackwell

Tag: fiction

  • How to Keep Fans Coming Back: An Interview With Jon Jensen

    How to Keep Fans Coming Back: An Interview With Jon Jensen

    By Colin Blackwell and his AI Assistants

    When it comes to building relationships between sports franchises and fans, Jon Jensen knows the importance of making every moment count. Currently the Director of Ticket Sales and Service for the Rip City Remix, the G League affiliate of the Portland Trail Blazers, Jon brings years of experience in both collegiate and professional sports. His background includes roles at Portland State University and the Boise Hawks Professional Baseball Club, where he led ticketing and fan engagement initiatives that put people, not just profits, at the center of strategy. Connect with Jon on LinkedIn here.

    I had the opportunity to speak with Jon about what it really takes to make fans feel valued. His insight reflects a key truth: a great experience can’t be faked. It has to be curated with care.

    “We’re not just selling a ticket, we’re selling an experience.”

    Jon emphasized that building strong relationships with fans starts with ensuring they enjoy the product, and that means more than just what’s on the court. “It’s about making sure they’re having a good experience,” he said. Whether it’s their first game or their fiftieth, whether the team hasn’t won or is undefeated, fans should feel like they’re part of something special.

    From a business perspective, success in his role is often measured by revenue, but Jon says it’s not always that simple. “There’s definitely a strategic component to attendance,” he explained. “We’d rather have 1000 people in the building at a lower price than 100 people at high prices.” Packed crowds bring energy, and energy builds loyalty.

    Jon’s prior work at Portland State University offers a different lens. In college sports, traditions and generational loyalty often drive sales. Many fans are alumni or lifelong supporters. Still, even there, revenue is increasingly prioritized. “In the last 20 years, more focus has been on revenue because that’s the way the sports business world has gone,” Jon noted. “But it’s still important to get students in the building because the students set the tone for the fan experience at that level.”

    So, what’s the best part of the job? For Jon, it’s seeing the results in real time. “We sold them on having a great time, and then we get to see them have that great time.” Whether he’s walking the concourse or reconnecting with season ticket holders, those moments of connection are what keep him coming back.

    Final Takeaways

    Jon’s perspective offers a valuable reminder. Great fan experiences are intentional. Revenue is crucial, but so is creating a space where fans want to show up. For college sports especially, don’t underestimate the impact of student engagement. It sets the tone for the entire arena.

    And above all, listen to your fans. Feedback and criticism are tools for growth, not obstacles. Creating joy in the stands starts with understanding what fans want, and ends with the people behind the scenes, like Jon, making it happen.

    If you’re in the Portland area, the Rip City Remix would love to see you at a game. And if you’re curious about Jon’s path or want advice on breaking into sports, feel free to connect with him on LinkedIn. He’s always happy to share.

  • Strategic Spells: The Wizards’ PR Game

    Strategic Spells: The Wizards’ PR Game

    By Colin Blackwell and his AI assistants

    In a season where on-court performance did not meet expectations, the Washington Wizards exemplify how strategic community engagement can sustain and even enhance brand equity. Their multifaceted public relations initiatives demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility, community involvement and cultural enrichment, resonating directly with their local community that supports them year in and year out.​ Listed below are four of the many initiatives that the Wizards use to create positive community impacts that create long-term fans down the line. 

    Strategic Community Engagement Initiatives

    1. Winter Reading Challenge: In partnership with local libraries, the Wizards launched a reading program aimed at promoting literacy among youth. Participants are encouraged to read regularly, with incentives such as game tickets and team merchandise. After completing the assigned book each month, they encourage the families to share their thoughts on the book on social media and use the hashtag #WizardsBookoftheMonth. This creates a culture where community members see that the team cares about more than basketball, and the online connection is an important touch, as it shows that they want to hear from the DC families they are impacting.
    2. Black-Owned DMV: This initiative spotlights Black-owned businesses in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia areas. They created a video series permanently on their website that highlights one business each season, this year being Sandlot D.C., while integrating other businesses into the game-day presentation during the regular season. By featuring these enterprises on their platforms, the Wizards support economic empowerment and celebrate diversity within the local community.​
    3. Math Hoops: An educational program that combines basketball with mathematics, Math Hoops engages students in interactive learning, enhancing their arithmetic skills through the context of sports.​ Along with the app, they hosted a regional math tournament at their arena where local children between grades 4 and 8 could compete while also meeting staff and players.
    4. Engine 2 Fire Station Mural: Collaborating with local artist Juan Pineda, the Wizards supported the creation of a mural at Engine 2 Fire Station. This artwork honors first responders and reflects the team’s dedication to community appreciation and cultural expression.​

    Implications for PR Professionals

    The Wizards’ approach underscores the importance of aligning brand initiatives with community values. By addressing areas such as education, economic development and cultural recognition, they foster a positive brand image that transcends sports. These programs not only engage the community but also create narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, offering valuable insights for PR strategies in various sectors.​

    Conclusion

    The Washington Wizards demonstrate that impactful public relations extends beyond traditional media outreach. They build lasting relationships and a resilient brand identity through deliberate and meaningful community engagement. For PR professionals, their model offers a blueprint for integrating social responsibility into brand strategy, ensuring relevance and resonance regardless of performance metrics.

    References:

    DC Family. (2024, December 2). Wizards Reading Zone – DC Family. DC Family. https://dcfamily.com/readingzone/ 

    National Basketball Association. (n.d.-a). Community Highlights | Washington Wizards. Washington Wizards. https://www.nba.com/wizards/community 

    Washington Wizards. (2025, April 23). Washington D.C. Engine 2 Fire Station Mural. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUt23lFHkpU