The Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, a playful and oversized candy product emerging from a collaboration between The Hershey Company and NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal, have proudly been named the Official Gummy of March Madness 2025. This partnership, announced on March 24, 2025, enhances Hershey’s existing NCAA sponsorship portfolio, which includes popular brands such as Reese’s and Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels. Throughout the tournament, fans can expect extensive promotion for these delightful gummies.
In conjunction with the Final Four weekend festivities in San Antonio, guests will have the opportunity to taste the Shaq-A-Licious product and engage in various interactive experiences. Furthermore, this collaboration features a charitable initiative alongside Operation Homefront, aimed at providing assistance to military families. Launched in 2024, the Shaq-A-Licious Gummies come in two appealing varieties and are available across the United States and Canada.
Exploring the Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies Collaboration
This new partnership marks a significant expansion of Hershey’s multi-year NCAA collaboration, positioning Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies as the official gummy for a major sporting event for the very first time. These gummies will gain visibility through broadcasts on CBS Sports and Warner Bros. Discovery Sports, which aligns with Hershey’s strategy to elevate fan experiences through engaging snack options. Dan Mohnshine, Hershey’s VP of U.S. CMG Marketing, remarked in a press release on March 24, 2025:
“The NCAA® DI Men’s Basketball Tournament is full of fun and energy, that aligns perfectly with the Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies brand. With Shaq-A-Licious joining our other Hershey’s brands as NCAA partners, we’re ready to score big sweet and salty game day moments.”
Sampling and Experiences at the Final Four
During the Reese’s College All-Star Game on April 4, fans attending the event in San Antonio will have the chance to sample Shaq-A-Licious Gummies while engaging in exciting on-court activities. This event, broadcast live on CBS Sports Network, will feature giveaways and interactive breaks, making for a memorable experience.
Additionally, in conjunction with Operation Homefront, Hershey will organize community initiatives focusing on support for military families. This cause resonates with Shaquille O’Neal, who has a personal connection as a member of a military family.
Product Offerings and Availability
Shaq-A-Licious Gummies are available in two exciting lines:
- Originals: Featuring flavors like peach, berry punch, and orange, all shaped like Shaq’s distinctive facial silhouette.
- Sours: Offering flavors of green watermelon, pineapple, and mixed berry, these gummies are inspired by Shaq’s playful nicknames and come in fun shapes like cacti and shamrocks.
These gummies are widely available at retailers across the U.S. and Canada. For the latest store locators and product insights, consumers can follow Shaq-A-Licious on its social media platforms, including Instagram and TikTok at @shaqalicious_official. Special events such as the sampling on April 4 provide fans with exclusive access during the March Madness season.
Impactful Partnership with Operation Homefront
The partnership between Hershey and Operation Homefront takes center stage during March Madness, emphasizing Shaquille O’Neal’s commitment to philanthropy. The nonprofit organization works to support military families, and these efforts extend into San Antonio, a city important to O’Neal’s life as it houses a former military base. This collaboration aligns with Shaquille’s philanthropic initiatives, including his well-known programs such as Shaq-a-Claus and Shaq-to-School.
Overview of Hershey’s NCAA Sponsorship
With the inclusion of Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, Hershey continues to enhance its NCAA branding alongside established names like Reese’s, which sponsors the Reese’s Final Four Friday® event. The company is committed to delivering “sweet and salty game day moments,” catering to the diverse snacking preferences of fans throughout the tournament.
As the Official Gummy of March Madness 2025, Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies represent Hershey’s unique blend of sports, snacking, and community contribution. By making these gummies available nationwide and engaging fans during pivotal tournament moments, the partnership effectively amplifies both brands’ appeal in popular culture and their dedication to social initiatives.
For further details about the events or product offerings, visit Shaqalicious.com or engage with the brand on their social media platforms.