Marriott Expands NBA Deal For Global Games
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has announced that Marriott Rewards, Marriott International’s loyalty program, will become the presenting partner of the NBA Global Games London 2016.
The game, taking place on 14th January, will see the Orlando Magic take on the Toronto Raptors at The O2.
The latest deal expands Marriott’s existing partnership with the NBA – announced in July 2015 – when Marriott was named the official hotel of several marquee NBA events around the world, including NBA Global Games 2015-16, NBA Africa Game 2015 and NBA Canada Series 2015.
Marriott is the first company to partner with the NBA across international games on five different continents.
Ahead of the event at The O2, sportindustry.biz spoke to NBA’s Marc Armstrong. Check out the full article here.
Leading up to the game, Marriott Rewards will give basketball fans and celebrities a chance to pursue their passion for basketball throughout London. A double decker bus will be branded NBA and Marriott Rewards complete with an NBA hoop, plus celebrity appearances from the likes of football star Didier Drogba.
Two lucky fans will also be recruited on social media to join these celebrities for an on-court experience during the NBA Global Games London 2016 with one fan winning one million Marriott Rewards points toward a trip around the world.
“Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. With this extension of our NBA partnership, we are creating memorable experiences for our Marriott Rewards members and connecting them with others who share their passion for basketball and travel,” said Karin Timpone, global marketing officer, Marriott International.
“Similar to what we are doing with music and entertainment, our NBA partnership also helps us communicate the depth and breadth of our portfolio and amplifies the benefits of the Marriott Rewards program for both new and loyal guests.”
In addition to the festivities, up to 30 Marriott Rewards Elite members will get a chance to watch the game from premium seats at The O2, as well as attend a meet and greet with former NBA players Horace Grant and Rick Fox. As the presenting partner of NBA Global Games London 2016, Marriott Rewards will receive prominent brand exposure, including event logo inclusion and on-court and in-arena signage.
Benjamin Morel, NBA EMEA senior vice president and managing director, added: “We are excited to welcome Marriott Rewards as the Presenting Partner of our sixth straight, sold-out game in London.
“Marriott is a dynamic global brand, and we look forward to continuing to work together to further enhance the NBA experience for our fans in the UK.”
NBA Global Games London 2016 presented by Marriott Rewards will air live on BT Sport 1 and BT Sport Showcase.
Image: ©Getty Images
