The rise of basketball in Auckland is set to reach new heights with the iconic Sky Tower coming on board as naming rights sponsor of the Auckland Huskies for the 2021 season.
The Sky Tower has been a dominating feature in Tamaki Makaurau since completion in 1997, and over the past 24 years has become an iconic landmark for New Zealand, attracting millions of domestic and international visitors.
“We are thrilled to announce the Sky Tower as our naming rights sponsor for the 2021 Sal’s NBL season. There isn’t a more recognised landmark or brand that could represent the Auckland Huskies,” said Huskies General Manager Matt Lacey.
“We aim to be one of Auckland’s premier live sporting attractions, and just like the team at the Sky Tower we offer entertainment that is suitable for the whole family.
“The wider SkyCity organisation has a longstanding relationship with basketball, which provides the perfect foundation for us to grow the game in Auckland and build on the opportunities ahead of us.
“The support of the Sky Tower is a significant step for the Huskies franchise and a huge boost for our fans and players alike,” says Lacey.
SkyCity Chief Operating Officer Callum Mallett says this is the first time the Sky Tower has become a stand-alone naming rights sponsor.
“Over many years but particularly the last 12 months, it has felt like the Sky Tower belongs to Aucklanders, being a symbol of home for many, and a beacon for what is going on in Tamaki Makaurau.
“We felt strong alignment with the Sky Tower Auckland Huskies’ values of being community minded, family focused and through their schools and academy programmes, committed to giving back to the community and finding the next generation of talent.
“It’s also a great opportunity for us to remind Aucklanders, and visitors from across Aotearoa that the Sky Tower is a family visitor attraction for New Zealanders as well as international tourists and while the borders are closed this is a great time to come and have a fresh look, from a totally unique view, of our wonderful city,” says Mallett.
NBL General Manager Justin Nelson is equally delighted to welcome Sky Tower on board.
“It’s fantastic to officially welcome the Sky Tower Auckland Huskies to season 2021.
“We are continuing to see many new partners joining the Sal’s NBL and I can’t think of a more synonymous partner to represent the Auckland Huskies than Sky Tower.”
“The Sky Tower is such a commanding landmark in Auckland. The League enjoys a wonderful relationship with SkyCity and we always enjoy the view from the Sky Tower every time we’re visiting. To have the Huskies representing the city with the Sky Tower on board is great news.
“Well done to everyone involved,” he added.
The Huskies begin their 2021 Sal’s NBL campaign with a trip down the southern motorway on Sunday April 25th to take on the Franklin Bulls.
The Sky Tower Auckland Huskies first home game will be on Friday April 30th against Manawatu Jets at Eventfinda Stadium.
