CLEVELAND — Editor's note: the Locked On Cavs episode in the player above is from May 26, 2021.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have a new host for their esports tournaments.
On Wednesday, the Cavs announced a multiyear partnership with Esports Entertainment Group, Inc., which will become the franchise's official esports tournament platform provider. As a part of the deal, Esports Entertainment Group will annually operate three co-branded esports tournaments for the Cavs utilizing its Esports Gaming League (“EGL”) platform.
"Our EGL platform continues to gain strong traction among top-tier professional sports franchises,” Grant Johnson, CEO of Esports Entertainment Group, said in a statement. “We are delighted to announce the Cavs as first NBA team partnership. Our robust tournament platform will help the Cavs strengthen connections with their fans, while providing new avenues for engagement.”
As a part of the agreement, Esports Entertainment Group will receive courtside LED signage at all Cavs regular-season home games throughout the 2021-2022 season and will serve as the presenting partner of an annual esports-themed night. Additionally, the Cavs' NBA 2K League affiliate, Cavs Legion, will host an upcoming NBA 2K tournament operated by EGL, with EGL receiving brand exposure on the team's physical and virtual jerseys.
“The growing popularity of esports provides a great opportunity for our team to create deeper connections and engagement with our fans,” said Matt O’Brien, Cleveland Cavaliers vice president, global corporate partnerships. “We think these tournaments will be very popular with our fans and a fun way to compete in an entertaining and social environment with gamers from across the world.”