United Airlines has been named the official airline partner of the Golden State Warriors. United Airlines, GSW Arena LLC and the Warriors have signed a multi-year agreement that designates United as the official airline and a founding partner of Chase Center, the modern sports and entertainment venue being developed in San Francisco’s Mission Bay. The partnership begins in the 2016–17 season at Oracle Arena and will continue when the team moves to Chase Center.
To mark the announcement, Warriors players and team leadership joined United staff at the airline’s San Francisco maintenance facility for a press event. United converted a hangar into a co-branded basketball court, where employees took part in a shooting contest assisted by several NBA players.
“As the official airline of the Warriors, United solidifies its leadership and commitment to the San Francisco and Bay Area communities,” said Julia Haywood, executive vice president and chief commercial officer of United. “San Francisco is a key market for United, and this relationship demonstrates further investment in our employees and our customers.”
The airline also expanded its support for the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco, increasing travel funding to $60,000. United presented the funds to the organization’s president so the Boys & Girls Club can fly its Rebels basketball team to Amateur Athletic Union tournaments nationwide.
Under the sponsorship, MileagePlus members gain new opportunities to redeem miles for premium seats, suite tickets, VIP experiences and autographed merchandise. United will receive radio, social media, digital and in-arena advertising rights at both Oracle Arena and Chase Center, and the airline will maintain a branded presence within Chase Center’s East Side Club.