In Seattle, Geoff Baker reports Alaska Airlines will be the "official airline and founding partner of NHL Seattle," as well as the franchise's upcoming arena and practice facility. A "key part" of the deal encompasses naming rights for the atrium at the arena. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, though it "leaves room for NHL Seattle to negotiate a larger naming-rights pact for the entire arena" (SEATTLE TIMES, 1/17).
NOT COMPLETELY SIDELINED: Cloud customer-service software company Genesys will sponsor driver James Hinchcliffe in IndyCar's two May races at Indianapolis Motor Speedway -- the GMR Grand Prix and the Indianapolis 500. Hinchcliffe has been looking for a new team and sponsor since his Arrow McLaren dropped him during the offseason. The team Hinchcliffe will drive for will be announced later. This marks the first IndyCar sponsorship for Genesys (Adam Stern, THE DAILY).
SUPER BOWL NOTES: Rob Gronkowski is "teaming up with Uber Eats on a new partnership" with Miami-based The Salty Donut ahead of Super Bowl LIV. Miami-area residents can order the limited-edition Gronk Box that consists of two glazed donuts and two Whipped Pina Colada donuts. Those who order the box through Jan. 27 "will automatically be entered to win prizes including general admission tickets" to the Gronk Beach party on Feb. 1 (MIAMI HERALD, 1/17). Meanwhile, Perry Ellis will be the "exclusive uniform provider" for the Super Bowl LIV Host Committee Volunteer Program (WWD.com, 1/15).
