Phoenix Suns and Casino Arizona close the deal

The Phoenix Suns announced this week that they have sold the naming rights for ten years to the arena's entrance, which will be called Casino Arizona Pavilion.

The NBA does not want to be tied to legalized gambling, but 18 of the 30 teams have sponsorship deals with casinos. As long as the Casino does not offer basketball bets, the NBA will not complain. Casino Arizona, does not have a sportsbook.

"As the Indian casinos become more marketing aware and have a larger advertising budget, they are trying to connect sports fans," said Marc Ganis whose firm specializes in sports marketing.