Brazil’s NBB takes off with airline partner

Brazilian airline Avianca has entered into a partnership with the country’s National Basketball League (LNB), under which it will sponsor the top-tier NBB club competition.

Avianca has agreed a year-long deal to become the official airline of the NBB. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, although the Maquina do Esporte website claimed the deal would be worth around R$400,000 (€97,000/$107,000).

Under the agreement, Avianca will receive brand activation rights at all NBB group stage, playoff and final matches. The deal will also cover the league’s All-Star Game, which takes place in Mogi das Cruzes, Sao Paulo from March 19-20.

As part of the deal, Avianca will service the travel needs of the LNB and NBB teams.

LNB president Cassio Roque said: “Having a sponsor that will help us with the logistics of our teams and staff is something that has always been a priority for the LNB. Having a company the size of Avianca Brasil next to us is fantastic. The NBB is increasing in size each year and our aim is that more and more cities are involved in the championship, so this partnership will be crucial for us.”