PartyPoker agree US sports deal

ne operators PartyPoker have become the official online gaming partner of two major US sports teams.

NBA franchise the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Devils of the NHL, both of who are principally owned by businessman Joshua Harris, have agreed a multi-year deal with the poker giants.

The arrangement, which also covers the Devils’ home arena the Prudential Center, will see “co-branded assets” built for fans of both franchises as well as the venue.

A new promotion called the ‘Dream Seat Series' will allow fans located in New Jersey who play on nj.partypoker.com to compete for prizes such as regular, courtside and VIP suite seats to all Devils and Sixers home games, road trips with the teams and tickets to concerts at the Prudential Center.

PartyPoker will also be integrated into the websites, social media channels and mobile applications of the Devils and 76ers, as well as their tickets and hospitality, in-arena signage and the television and radio advertisements broadcast during games.

PartyPoker will lead simultaneous "arena takeovers" of both the Prudential Center and the Sixers’ Wells Fargo Center on 11 January, with fans given the opportunity to sign up and sample PartyPoker at stations throughout the arenas, while also receiving exclusive offers.

“We are proud to welcome PartyPoker to our family as we embark on an exciting journey with an innovative, global leader in the digital marketplace,” said Scott O’Neil, CEO of the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center.

Norbert Teufelberger, CEO of PartyPoker parent company BwinParty, added: “We are excited to be working with the Devils and 76ers and to be able to offer their fans great digital content and unique game-day experiences.”

“There is an affinity between playing in online poker tournaments and sports – winning is about having intense focus, stamina and a great competitive spirit.”