Pushback over their first casino sponsorship isn’t stopping the New York Jets.
On Wednesday, MGM announced itself as the “official gaming partner for the NFL franchise based in East Rutherford. From the press release:
The multi-year agreement marks the most comprehensive and integrated gaming partnership in the National Football League (NFL) to date, promoting the global entertainment company’s best in class casino resorts as well as Play MGM’s online gaming platforms and mobile apps to millions of fans.
Similar partnerships have materialized every day this week.
On Tuesday, Caesars announced partnerships with the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia 76ers. And on Monday, the very same NY Jets signed their first casino deal with 888 Casino. Although none of those deals involve a physical sportsbook, NJ sports betting is available statewide on mobile devices.
The Jets now have two alliances with casino companies — one as a sponsor and another as their official gaming partner.
Analysis on the deal (and others):
MGM building predictive game for Jets
This partnership carries many of the same earmarks as the others that preceded it. The Jets will promote MGM on in-stadium signage and other promotional materials, and MGM will take extra special care of Jets fans at its casinos in New Jersey and elsewhere.
A dedicated mobile play-along game serves as one of the unique selling points.
Under the partnership, MGM will offer a free in-play product within the Official New York Jets app. “I Called It” lets fans play along with home and away games, competing for prizes and giveaways centered around team activities.
Here’s MGM CEO Jim Murren on the deal:
“We could not be more excited to join with the New York Jets for a first-of-its-kind partnership in the NFL. We look forward to working with the Jets to innovate gaming, increase our customer base through cross marketing opportunities and provide NFL fans with a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience.”
The alliance includes a few additional marketing/branding components:
- MGM sponsors the Jets 360 studio and multimedia coverage
- MGM ads incorporated into TV and radio programs
- Jets season ticket holders and rewards members enjoy expanded hospitality at MGM properties
Casino giant MGM is also an official partner to both the NBA and NHL at the league level.