You might see more esports-specific branding at Amway Center when the NBA returns to normal.
The Orlando Magic last month expanded its partnership with the Boca Raton-based Misfits Gaming Group.
That group owns several esports teams, including the Florida Mayhem in the Overwatch League and Florida Mutineers in the Call of Duty League.
The deal centers mostly around marketing as the pact allows the Magic to include Misfits Gaming Group in deals that could help both organizations.
Misfits Gaming also announced a similar deal with the Miami Heat.
Esports has become a large part of professional sports leagues’ promotional push. The NBA and Major League Soccer starting leagues that revolve around video games.
The league hosted one of its major events in Orlando last year.
The Orlando Magic and Miami Heat have been part of the NBA 2K League since its inaugural season.
The Magic will integrate more deeply into Overwatch League, Call of Duty League, League of Legends European Championship and Fortnite.
The deal represents the first of its kind for an NBA team.
“As we work towards being esports leaders in the state of Florida, we will join forces to assist esports brands in targeting new revenue opportunities and strategic partnerships in the market,” said J.T. McWalters, the Magic’s VP of partnership activation and strategy, in a release.
Magic Gaming finished the 2020 regular season at 7-9.
The squad will compete in the NBA 2K League’s THE TICKET tournament this weekend.
A spot in the postseason will be on the line.