Kings Guard Gaming Selects esports Leader Unikrn to Help Extend Global Reach and Develop Innovative Sponsorships

Unikrn & Partner Organization Playwire Will Represent Kings Guard Gaming to International Brands, Potential Partners

Today, Kings Guard Gaming announced Unikrn, one of the world’s foremost esports brands, and its partner Playwire, have been selected to represent the team to international brands and potential partners as it begins competing in the inaugural NBA 2K League season. Ranked by Forbes as the team to beat, Kings Guard will begin league play on May 1.

The Kings have been recognized as one of NBA’s most technologically-advanced teams, including the title of Fast Company’s 2017 Most Innovative Company in sports. Today’s announcement marks another significant milestone for Kings Guard, building on the momentum of: an A+ draft class, announcing NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal will serve as the team’s General Manager, introducing UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber to curate the team’s training and performance program, and the world’s first dedicated esports training facility and content studio at a pro sports venue.

“Partnering with esports industry leaders like Unikrn and Playwire will provide Kings Guard and with a distinct advantage,” said Sacramento Kings Chief Technology Officer and head of esports Ryan Montoya. “We are excited to connect corporate partners with new global audiences that are growing exponentially day by day.”

Together, Unikrn and Playwire will serve as the exclusive third-parties representing the team to brands or agencies, with Unikrn as the primary, day-to-day contact for Kings Guard and Playwire as the primary contact selling opportunities, sponsorships, and ad programs.

“A shift into esports from the Kings shows a sharp understanding of what the coming months and years hold for sports and entertainment,” said Unikrn CEO Rahul Sood. “Unikrn has the perfect combination of assets and experience to help drive major success for Kings Guard as they create an unprecedented bridge to the future of sports.”

Unikrn is one of the widest-reaching brands in esports with team stake ownership, developed and integrated content teams, and live event management at MGM Resorts, as well as a proven history in managing team partnerships, including relationships with premier manufactures and peripheral producers. As part of the partnership, Unikrn will also help create and amplify unique content via their content team and community platform. Playwire Media is a full-service digital innovation partner that leverages online advertising and proprietary technologies to build publishing brands in the gaming and entertainment verticals.