Oklahoma City, Wednesday, Dec. 19 – The Oklahoma City Thunder and Kia Motors have announced a new partnership, making Kia the Official Automotive Partner of the Thunder.
For the 2012-13 season, Kia will sponsor select elements with the team, including the updated Kia Rewards Zone, which offers fans a game-night opportunity to win the final 50 pairs of tickets for every Thunder home game.
In 2013-14, Kia will become the Exclusive Automotive Partner of the Thunder, expanding Kia’s partnership with the team with additional displays and fan-friendly promotions.
“We are proud to partner with Kia and bring it on as a part of our team,” said Danny Barth, executive vice president and chief administrative officer of the Thunder. “With this partnership, Kia has demonstrated an outstanding level of commitment to our team and to Thunder fans across the state. We look forward to building this partnership and fostering the connections between Kia and our fans.”
The partnership will extend to include several Kia dealerships across the state, including Bob Moore Kia in Oklahoma City and Edmond and Primeaux Kia in Tulsa, and a promotional giveaway of Thunder tickets will commence on Jan. 1 (details of the giveaway will vary by location).
“Kia’s involvement with the NBA and nearly half of the league’s teams has driven dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. “Our team partnerships leverage the excitement of the game and increase Kia’s interaction with the passionate fan bases in each market, and we are proud to add the Oklahoma City Thunder to our roster.”
Other elements of the partnership include Kia branding within Chesapeake Energy Arena; a presenting sponsorship of the “Top Stories” section of the team’s official website, THUNDER.NBA.COM; a concourse vehicle display at the arena; and in-game features during Thunder television and radio broadcasts.
The updated Kia Thunder Rewards Zone will begin on Thursday, Dec. 27, when the Thunder takes on the Dallas Mavericks. For details on the Rewards Zone, go to THUNDER.NBA.COM.
About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.[1] Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.
Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle lineup is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.