Sprint Gets Naming Rights To Kansas City Arena

(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — AEG has awarded Sprint the naming rights for the proposed downtown Kansas City, MO arena, to be called Sprint Arena, in a $2.5 million per year deal for 25 years. As part of the transaction, Sprint receives rights to develop and create unique and exclusive branding opportunities in addition to external signage, advertising and collateral materials and access to select hospitality, arena services and amenities.

"Sprint Center, the anchor to the new KC Live entertainment district, will be a state-of-the-art entertainment venue, utilizing Sprint's latest technologies to create the best possible fan experience," said Gary Forsee, chairman and chief executive officer of Sprint. "This sponsorship offers Sprint the opportunity to support the revitalization of downtown Kansas City and provides us with a significant opportunity to promote the Sprint brand, market our products and services, and generate revenues from Sprint offerings."

"Our partnership with Sprint is another important step forward in the development of a world-class sports and entertainment arena for the people of Kansas City," said Timothy J. Leiweke, president and chief executive officer, AEG. "This agreement not only provides further financial protection for the residents of Kansas City but another committed partner to the creation of a showplace that will bring important local, regional and national events and investment to an evolving and revitalized downtown business and entertainment district."

"Combining AEG's strong ties to Kansas City with a locally based, nationally prominent organization like Sprint and an innovative local government under the direction of Mayor Barnes truly creates a public-private partnership that is as committed to the community as it is to creating this much needed resource," said Shawn Hunter, chief marketing officer, AEG.

"This is the final piece in the downtown arena financial package. We have now presented a comprehensive package to the voters of Kansas City," said Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes. "What is needed now is for Kansas City voters to demonstrate their civic pride and vote 'yes' on Aug. 3." — Jane Cohen and Bob Grossweiner