Donovan Mitchell Joins CarMax’s “Wanna Drive?” Campaign

Donovan Mitchell has always been able to create drama, whether it’s by soaring for a dunk or dropping a dagger three. He’s bringing that same energy to a different area: the car-buying world. The new CarMax ‘Wanna Drive?’ campaign, designed by 72andSunny Los Angeles, features the NBA star in a series of humorous and fast-paced ads that seamlessly merge basketball style with everyday convenience.

The new campaign pairs Mitchell with rising WNBA star Paige Bueckers, both of whom inject their own personality into the spots. The ads feature the recently introduced CarMax House Band, a quirky hype crew whose playful riffs underscore the brand’s message: buying or selling a car shouldn’t be stressful.

It should feel as natural—and as satisfying—as watching your favorite player drill a three-pointer. Mitchell’s segment leans heavily into his “Spida” identity. In the ad, he’s not just selling his car; he’s selling it Spida style. He hops online, gets a quick offer, and schedules an at-home pickup—a new CarMax service that now covers most customers, allowing them to sell a car without ever leaving their driveway or office parking lot: no haggling, no dealership visit, no hassle. Just a smooth handoff, capped off with Mitchell grabbing drumsticks and celebrating like he just closed out a playoff game.

“I like taking control on the court, and the same goes for buying or selling a car,” Mitchell said. “CarMax lets customers do it all on their terms. And when the deal’s done, find me a pair of drumsticks to celebrate the W with a solo!”

CarMax is familiar with linking sports culture with consumer experiences. Their commercials have been a staple of NBA and WNBA broadcasts, renowned for combining superstar personalities with imaginative, sometimes humorous stories that bring fans closer to their favorite athletes. Past campaigns have highlighted some of basketball’s most well-known names, often providing small, relatable glimpses into life outside the court.

This latest push continues that tradition while expanding the company’s presence in both leagues. CarMax’s bond with basketball fans has strengthened as it enters its fifth year as the Official Auto Retailer of the NBA and WNBA. Their dedication to women’s sports is what sets them apart.

Since 2020, the brand has increased its investment in women’s sports by more than tenfold, positioning itself as a WNBA Changemaker with initiatives aimed at elevating the league, expanding visibility, and supporting athletes year-round. By becoming the presenting partner of Amazon’s NBA on Prime Pregame, CarMax is expanding its reach and immersing the brand in the rhythms of the basketball season.

For CarMax CMO Sarah Lane, the partnership with Mitchell and Bueckers is about more than star power—it’s about alignment. “Paige and Donovan are more than elite athletes – they are cultural leaders whose talent, drive, and authenticity inspire their millions of fans,” Lane said. “Just as these incredible athletes lead on the court with skill and confidence, CarMax is proud to deliver the most customer-centric car buying and selling experience in the industry. Together, we want to show what it looks like to drive the game, and put the customer in control.”

Mitchell’s inclusion in the campaign strengthens the company’s message: in a world where car buying and selling have been too overwhelming, CarMax is rewriting the rules. And with a pair of drumsticks and a bit of swagger, Donovan Mitchell is helping show that the road to a better experience might start with asking a simple question: Do you want to drive?