Ladbrokes steps up NBL backing with Bullets deal

Australian National Basketball League team the Brisbane Bullets has agreed a sponsorship deal with bookmaker Ladbrokes.

The deal names Ladbrokes as a major associate partner of the Bullets, as well as the team’s official betting partner. The length of the agreement was not disclosed.

As part of the deal, Ladbrokes’ branding will appear on the back of the team’s playing jerseys.

“To have committed corporate partners like Ladbrokes and the associated revenue is vital to ensure we can provide our first-rate coaching staff with resources to give them every possible chance to achieve consistent on court success,” Bullets chief executive Mitchell Murphy said.

“Ladbrokes has a proud history and I’m sure the company’s association with the Brisbane Bullets will further enhance their brand and increase market share.”

The team faces defending NBL champion Perth Wildcats in its opening game of the 2016-17 season on October 6. The upcoming campaign will mark the Bullets’ return to the NBL, with the team having lost its place in the top-tier competition in 2008 following financial difficulties.

Ladbrokes earlier this month extended its partnership with the NBL and will continue to serve as the league’s official Australian sports betting and wagering partner for the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons.