In Calgary, Sammy Hudes reports the Flames earlier this week added the phrase "I (heart) Oil & Gas" on the Scotiabank Saddledome ice surface in "two of the rink's four corners ... in a show of support for the energy industry." The corners at each end of the ice are "normally reserved for on-ice advertisements." Grassroots activist group Canada Action Founder Cody Battershill said that the Flames "reached out 'a couple weeks ago,' offering to donate the on-ice advertising spaces to the group" (CALGARY HERALD, 1/11).
GAMERS, THEY'RE JUST LIKE YOU: Esports equipment maker HyperX on Wednesday at CES "showed off new promotional artwork" at the HyperX Esports Arena Las Vegas that features Celtics F Gordon Hayward, 76ers C Joel Embiid and Steelers WR JuJu Smith-Schuster. Using stars from tradition stick-and-ball sports "who enjoy gaming is part of the 'We're All Gamers' marketing theme that HyperX is stressing." The company on Tuesday will make an "official marketing campaign announcement" with the release of promo videos (LVSPORTSBIZ.com, 1/10).
SWET EQUITY: Athleisure brand Swet Tailor has been "blowing up" this NFL season in part because it has "found a measure of sartorial flavor" with Eagles players. Eagles QBs Nick Foles, Carson Wentz and Nate Sudfeld, as well as other NFLers, have been "asking for pieces" of clothing from the company (PHILLY.com, 1/11).
