Payton Pritchard partners with Samsonite for the “It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite” campaign.
Samsonite has set the standard in travel for over a century. A company doesn’t reach that pinnacle without going above and beyond what it means to be a luggage brand. This industry titan is an iconic symbol of trust and innovation.
For a brand rooted in legacy, innovation, and trust, generations of travelers worldwide can attest that durability is as much of a Samsonite hallmark as style is.
As the company continues to evolve, working to stay ahead so that it maintains its place at the forefront of its industry, Samsonite has launched a marketing initiative that captures the belief that what you carry and how you carry it says everything.
“It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite” is a campaign highlighting a legacy of innovation, timeless design, and durable gear built to last.
Who better to partner with on such a campaign than a champion who can speak first-hand about the style, ease, and durability of Samsonite luggage?
Enter Payton Pritchard.
Payton Pritchard partners with Samsonite for the “It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite” campaign.
The NBA’s reigning Sixth Man of the Year helped the Boston Celtics lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy in 2023-24. Raising Banner 18 to the TD Garden rafters broke a tie with the Los Angeles Lakers for the franchise with the most titles in league history.
Samsonite selected Pritchard as the face of the campaign because he shares one of the company’s core values: excellence.
Similar foundations forge Payton Pritchard and Samsonite’s partnership
As for what made this partnership so appealing to him, Pritchard told Forbes, “Samsonite has been in the travel game for over a hundred years, and I respect how they’re always pushing for quality and innovation. It’s more than just luggage—it’s about packing what matters and doing it with style and durability, which is kind of how I approach basketball and life.”
Synergy is a common theme defining this pairing. That extends to Samsonite being a Massachusetts-based brand. That both call this state home is a part of their connection that made this collaboration feel right to Pritchard.
“Absolutely!” he emphasized. “I feel a strong connection to Samsonite, not just because of the quality of their products, but also because they’re a well-known brand. Boston has a culture of excellence and performance, and I think those same values are reflected in the way Samsonite approaches travel. It just felt like a natural fit. Samsonite has built a legacy as a trusted name in travel—an iconic symbol of trust and innovation.”
Payton Pritchard partners with Samsonite for the “It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite” campaign.
When thinking about how the energy of the city he stars in aligns with Samsonite’s brand, the five-year veteran, who has spent his entire NBA career in Boston, pointed to the following.
“Boston is a city fueled by passion, determination, and pride—qualities that mirror Samsonite’s legacy. Like the Celtics, Samsonite is known for its enduring performance and commitment to excellence. The fans here are loyal and discerning, and Samsonite continues to meet that high standard, making it a natural fit for the energy and spirit of this city.”
Durability is another foundational block that these two have built their reputations on. Samsonite high-performance gear’s engineered to last. Pritchard has proven to be an ironman on the court. He played in all 82 games in the 2023-24 campaign. Last season, he suited up for 80.
“Samsonite has built its reputation on making products that last, that stand up to the toughest conditions,” noted Pritchard. “In the same way, I’ve worked hard to build a reputation on being durable and consistent, whether it’s on the court or in how I handle my career. We both understand the importance of preparation, legacy, and putting in the work to perform at a high level, day in and day out.”
Payton Pritchard partners with Samsonite for the “It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite” campaign.
Payton Pritchard shares his essentials for a life on the go
As for what the former first-round pick fills his Samsonite luggage with to help ease a life of travel, Pritchard pointed to a few essentials.
“When I’m packing for a road trip, I’ve got a few go-to’s,” he shared. “First, it’s my gear — whether it’s my workout clothes, shoes, or the essentials I need for practice and games. I always bring a couple of books or my headphones to help me unwind. But most importantly, I make sure [that] I’m organized so I can stay on top of everything during a busy schedule. That’s where my Samsonite’s organization features really come in handy.”
In particular, Pritchard has found that the Proxis Spinner perfectly suits his lifestyle.
Payton Pritchard partners with Samsonite for the “It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite” campaign.
“The Proxis Spinner is my go-to, no question. I’m constantly on the road during the season, and that piece has just made life easier,” said Pritchard. “It’s lightweight but super durable — I can toss it in and out of buses, planes, whatever, and it still looks brand new. The spinner wheels are smooth, which sounds like a small thing, but when you’re running through airports or trying to get to shoot around, it matters. Plus, it fits everything I need without being oversized. It’s just a reliable, well-built piece of gear.”
The mutual admiration shared between these two Massachusetts-based stars built on durability and evolution, with distinctive styles that are an essential part of who they are, is what makes Payton Pritchard the perfect choice to partner with on the “It’s Not Just a Bag, It’s a Samsonite campaign.”
