Gila River Resorts & Casinos becomes first Native American NHL jersey sponsor

Gila River Resorts and Casinos has formed a multi-year partnership extension with the Arizona Coyotes, which sees the gaming operator’s branding adorned on the NHL’s home jerseys
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Gila River Resorts and Casinos has formed a multi-year partnership extension with the Arizona Coyotes, which sees the gaming operator’s branding adorned on the NHL’s home jerseys. 

Becoming the first-ever Native American-owned gaming company to have a logo on an NHL team jersey, Gila River will feature on the Coyotes’ black jerseys in all home games played at the Arizona State University’s Mullet Arena from October ahead of the 2022/23 season.

“We are thrilled to announce our extended partnership to add the Gila River Resorts & Casinos logo to our beloved home jerseys,” said Coyotes President & CEO, Xavier A Gutierrez

“Gila River has been a long-term partner for the Coyotes, and we are grateful for their tremendous loyalty and support over the years. 

“Like the Coyotes, Gila River prides itself on its commitment to excellence and to positively impacting our community. We look forward to having Gila River’s distinguished and respected name and logo on our incredibly popular black Kachina jerseys.”

Furthermore, Gila River will become the season-long sponsor of the Coyotes, participating in several community projects and events throughout the next season.

The company will host a jersey reveal party on Thursday at its Wild Horse Pass location, with Coyotes fans welcome to get a sneak peek at the new jersey. 

“Gila River is honored to be the first-ever Native American-owned gaming enterprise to have its logo on an NHL jersey,” added Kenneth Manuel, CEO of Gila River Resorts & Casinos. 

“As local leaders, we have developed an incredible partnership with the Arizona Coyotes driving positive change in the community as well as bringing world-class hockey to the Valley. We are thrilled to embark on this historic journey paving the way for other Native American gaming enterprises.”