NBA franchise the Miami HEAT has named Hard Rock Bet as its official sportsbook partner.
As part of the agreement, several co-marketing initiatives will be introduced, including prominent signage, digital campaigns, in-game entertainment and the launch of the Hard Rock Bet Heat Club. This free, opt-in club will offer fans special promotions and opportunities to engage with the team.
Additionally, Hard Rock Bet players will gain access to exclusive experiences at the Kaseya Center, the franchise’s home, along with VIP access to HEAT events.
The sportsbook has also revealed that some of the best seats in the arena will feature Hard Rock Bet branding and a new courtside platform will be launched for players and VIPs to enjoy the games.
Glen Oskin, VP of Corporate Partnerships for the Miami HEAT, stated: “Hard Rock Bet is the preeminent sportsbook on the market. This is a perfect union of two well established Florida brands coming together to deliver fans a new level of fun and excitement through some truly innovative experiences.”
Notably, Hard Rock Bet is Florida’s only legal sportsbook and has leveraged this position by partnering with other sports organisations across the state.
Last April, NHL’s Florida Panthers entered into a multi-year deal with Hard Rock Bet, marking the first sports betting partnership in the Panthers’ 31-year history.
Nick Menas, Managing Director of Corporate Strategy at Hard Rock Bet, commented: “We’re excited to Roll with the HEAT to engage basketball fans in South Beach and beyond, and create unforgettable moments for our players. From exclusive experiences to unparalleled access, we’re bringing our players closer to the action and elevating the way fans connect with the HEAT.”
Since the legalisation of sports betting in the US, the NBA’s relationship with the gambling sector has grown stronger, with the league and its franchises forming partnerships with sportsbooks and betting companies.
An example of this is the NBA’s launch of the branded slot game “NBA Super Slam” in partnership with FanDuel in December. Exclusive to FanDuel players in New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ontario, Canada, the game was created by White Hat Studios to tap into the growing US igaming market.