Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils Sign Deal With PartyPoker

NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and NHL’s New Jersey Devils are the first US professional sport teams, which sign sponsorship deal with an online gambling empire.

Scott O’Neil, CEO of Josh Harris-owned teams and Norbert Teufelberger, CEO of bwin.party, internet entertainment that operates PartyPoker, confirmed the multiple-year agreement in a common statement earlier this week.

O’Neil commented on the great gambling news: “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. As an organization, we will continue to align with brands that aspire to grow with us, in true partnership.”

All sides of the deal express hope for the future

Teufelberger added: “They 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 spirit.”

Both NHL and NBA have no concerns about the teams having a sponsorship agreement with an online casino and gambling operator.

Mark Tatum, NBA vice president said: “As long as the gambling site doesn’t include sports gambling or sports betting, it’s now allowed within our rules.”

According to the US gambling laws, internet gambling in the country is currently legal in three states – New Jersey, Nevada and Delaware, and the business is expecting to grow in the future.