The Charlotte Hornets has announced an exclusive long-term partnership with UK-based betting operator bet365, becoming the NBA team’s official mobile sports betting partner.
Subject to bet365 gaining a licence clearance in North Carolina, the Hornets’ newest official partner will gain “significant” branding and signage at the Spectrum Centre – home arena of the Hornets – as well as the franchises website, social media platforms, apps and team’s TV and radio game broadcasts.
“We are excited to announce this partnership with bet365,” said Hornets Sports & Entertainment Chief Revenue Officer, Jacob Gallagher.
“Since the day Governor Cooper signed sports wagering into law at Spectrum Center in June, we sought a partner that would help us provide our fans with new, additional opportunities to engage with their favourite sports teams.
“We are confident that bet365 is a great fit with our organisation and can help us do that.”
In-arena signage, including the placement of the bet365 logo on the courtside baseline aprons, activated during the Hornets’ NBA In-Season Tournament defeat against the Milwaukee Bucks last Saturday (18 November).
A bet365 spokesperson said: “Everyone at bet365 is thrilled to partner with the Hornets, as we launch our iconic sports betting brand in North Carolina.
“The Hornets’ rich and dynamic history is deep rooted in the Queen City community, and we’re abuzz to become part of their exciting future.”
The NBA franchise underwent a change in ownership last summer, as former majority owner and basketball legend Michael Jordan sold his majority stake to a group led by Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall for $3bn.
