Complex and ESPN are proud to announce an official partnership to celebrate the grand opening of the new Complex New York flagship store and the highly anticipated launch of the newly enhanced ESPN app. The collaboration brings together two cultural powerhouses for an extended, multi-week activation designed to immerse fans in the energy of sports, culture, and fashion — culminating in a dynamic convergence of content, community, and creativity.
Beginning August 22 through September 6, ESPN is taking over Complex New York for a can’t-miss, three-week experience that brings the world of sports and pop culture to life like never before. The SoHo store will be completely transformed into an immersive ESPN universe — putting fans right in the middle of the action. The ESPN x Complex pop-up will feature a massive, eye-catching display of stacked CRT TVs, LED panels, and flat screens pulsing with ESPN highlights, app previews, and throwback footage as well as the legendary SportsCenter desk (yes, the desk). Fans can explore rare archival apparel, shop exclusive merchandise, and watch original content that celebrates ESPN’s past, present, and future.
On Saturday, August 30, Complex will host an ESPN Watch Party, transforming the store into the ultimate sports viewing destination. With a focus on live-streaming the US Open and key college football matchups, the event is designed to foster social connection through shared fandom. Open to the public, fans can take photos at the original SportsCenter Desk and shop exclusive ESPN merchandise, all packed in custom ESPN x Complex shopping bags.
Complex to Present the Hellstar’s 5-Year Anniversary Collection and a Special ESPN x Hellstar Collaboration
From September 5-6, Complex will present an exclusive ESPN x Hellstar collaborative merchandise collection as well as Hellstar’s 5-Year Anniversary Collection. The partnership marks the latest chapter in ESPN’s cultural resurgence with a fully immersive Hellstar takeover of the store. Available exclusively at Complex NY, the collaboration celebrates five years of Hellstar’s influence on streetwear and brings fans a limited-edition collection that fuses the bold identities of both brands.
Fans can RSVP for the event, with early access reserved for users of the ESPN app, who will enjoy a dedicated priority entry line. Fans can shop the highly coveted ESPN x Hellstar merch, Hellstar’s 5th Anniversary collection, take photos with the Sportscenter desk, and catch special talent appearances throughout the Grand Opening weekend. Complex’s renowned content shows, “360 with Speedy” and “Please Explain,” Hosted by Aria Hughes will also tape episodes at the pop-up.
This partnership between Complex and ESPN marks a pivotal moment in the convergence of sports, fashion and media. As two of the most influential voices in culture, Complex and ESPN are coming together to create an experience that puts fans at the center — blending exclusive merchandise, immersive storytelling and live moments that reflect the energy of today’s audience.