MGM Resorts expands its reach in the NBA

The casino company has signed a new deal with NBA team Sacrament Kings and Xperiel.

US.- National Basketball League (NBA) team Sacramento Kings has announced that it reached a partnership with MGM Resorts International, expanding the latter’s commitment with the league.

The partnership with MGM and Xperiel, inventor of the Real World Web platform – is introducing the league’s first free-to-play gaming experience, available through the Sacramento Kings + Golden 1 Center mobile app, Sacramento Bee informed.

“Call the shot” gives fans the opportunity to predict the outcome of game quarters, player performance as well as interact with their favorite team. It also offers in-app prize opportunities at no cost to players. MGM Resorts is the official sponsor of the game, which is the first one from an NBA team that offers high-frequency predictive gaming to fans.

“We are committed to exploring new ways that technology can be used to engage with fans as they consume and interact with the game,” Kings owner Vivek Ranadivé said in a statement. “The future is experiential and we are proud to lead the way in continuing to redefine the fan experience with this innovative and interactive platform.” 

Scott Butera, MGM Resorts International president of interactive gaming added: “We are very excited about the opportunity to partner with the Kings, to become their exclusive presenting partner for the Call the Shot game. MGM Resorts looks forward to this unique opportunity to innovate free-to-play gaming, and provide fans with a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience.”

“When we first started working with the Kings a few years ago, Vivek Ranadivé had the vision that any predictive gaming experience we create together should have a Vegas-like gaming feel without the actual wagering,” added Alex Hertel, Xperiel CEO and co-founder.

“It is thrilling to see what we’ve built under Vivek’s guidance and look forward to continuing to work with the Kings and other NBA teams, to create immersive digital fan experiences and drive sports technology innovation with our real world web platform.”