NHL, NBA Teams Sign with Online Poker Group
In another sign that online gambling is becoming more mainstream than ever, two professional US sports teams have signed a multi year sponsorship contract with online poker room, Party Poker. The National Basketball Association’s Philadelphia 76ers and the National Hockey League’s New Jersey Devils have become the first US pro teams to link up with an online poker site for sponsorship purposes.
Party Poker, through its new New Jersey online gaming platform, will align itself with the two brands which are owned by the billionaire buyout specialist Josh Harris, and have its brand appear on the teams’ official websites, mobile apps and even at arenas and stadiums where the teams play.
“We are proud to welcome Party Poker to our family as we embark on an exciting journey with an innovative global leader in the digital marketplace,” said Scott O’Neil, CEO for the teams. “As an organization, we will continue to align with brands that aspire to grow with us in true partnership.”
Some eyebrows have been lifted over the new deal signed, especially since professional leagues such as the NBA and NHL are so vocal in their opposition to gambling and sports betting in general. However, the Vice President of the NBA, Mark Tatum was quick to explain. “As long as the gambling site doesn’t include sports gambling or sports betting, it’s now allowed within our rules,” he said.
Norbert Teufelberger, CEO for Bwin.Party, parent company of Party Poker, said that the Sixers and the Devils “are two of the most iconic names in American hockey and basketball, with huge and loyal fan bases throughout New Jersey and the surrounding metropolitan areas. There is an affinity between playing in online poker tournaments and sports – winning is about having intense focus, stamina and a great competitive experience.”
He added that “sports gambling is not on the table right now.”
“I would hope, at some point, it will be,” he added. “If it ever comes, we can sit together and see what we can make of it.”
