FanDuel is putting its reputation as the world’s largest daily fantasy sports site in the spotlight after announcing its plan to host the 2015 World Fantasy Basketball Championship in Miami, Florida from April 9 to 11, 2015.
The event, which is set to be held at the Ritz Carlton, is being prepared to be the first of what could be an annual gathering of daily fantasy sports users all competing to win a piece of the $1 million prize pool. Actually, the competition is open for everybody, but in order to be named as one of the 50 finalists of the tournament, players must go thorough a series of qualifying rounds that will be held on the FanDuel site. These qualifiers will run multiple times a week until all 50 finalists are identified.
Each of the lucky players who do make it to the championship in Miami will receive a posh three-night stay at the Ritz Carlton. In addition, each of the players will get free entry to a host of events, including the opening ceremonies on Thursday, the Finals on Friday, and the send-off party on Saturday.
Each player will be crying to stake claim to the $100,000 first prize, even though the second prize of $70,000 and the third price of $50,000 aren’t too shabby consolation prices themselves.
While FanDuel is busy preparing for the tournament, its main rival, DraftKings, is busy scooping up new sports partnerships. The Boston-based daily fantasy sports site has added the Los Angeles Clippers to its growing list of sports partnerships.
We are excited to partner with DraftKings,” Clippers President of Business Operations Gillian Zucker said in a statement. “This is a tremendous opportunity for the Clippers to associate with an innovative and progressive organization and we look forward to engaging our fan base through this new partnership.”
Just like its deals with other NBA teams like the Boston Celtics, Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Minnesota Timberwolves, the Clippers partnership allows DraftKings to have its brand name incorporated through various elements, including video board and LED Courtside signage, game day receptions, an extensive digital media package and a Fan Contest hosted on DraftKings.com.