Late on Tuesday night in India, Mahindra and Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) announced their agreement to make the former an official partner of the NBA franchise - Washington Wizards - and the NHL franchise - Washington Capitals.
The Washington Wizards have been a part of the NBA since 1961 under different names. The 2019-20 season is the franchise's 23rd season as the "Washington Wizards".
The franchise has four Conference titles (1971, 1975, 1978, 1979) and one NBA championship (1978) to its name.
Ted Leonsis, the founder, chairman and CEO of MSE bought the Wizards in 2010.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mahindra to the Monumental family,” Jim Van Stone, President of Business Operations and Chief Commercial Officer at MSE, said. “Like the Wizards and Capitals, Mahindra shares a strong commitment to serving the community, including honoring those who serve in the military and as first responders, through a variety of impactful programs. This partnership is another outstanding example of how Monumental is continuing to grow its global footprint.”
Mahindra is an Indian based company that began in 1945 and has since ventured into 22 different industries. Based on volume, it is the world's No. 1 tractor selling brand.
“We’re excited to expand our marketing efforts with Monumental Sports & Entertainment,” stated Richard Ansell, Vice President of Marketing at MANA (Mahindra Automotive North America). “As we grow our business presence in numerous North American markets, high-profile sports programs such as the Washington Capitals and Wizards alights with our strategy perfectly. We look forward to partnering with MSE on a variety of programs that will help Mahindra grow its brand in the U.S. and internationally.”
As per the agreement, Mahindra will receive in-arena television network advertisements and Wizards courtside LED rotational and LED basket stanchion signage