The fast-growing Asian sports betting operator and powerhouse, Fun88, expanded its roster of brand ambassadors by joining forces with Tony Parker, the famous Hall of Famer and recognizable NBA superstar. The latest partnership, announced Friday, sees the basketball pro become an official brand ambassador for Fun88 in Asia.

Under the terms of the fresh collaboration, Parker will appear in different activations, as well as promotions. Moreover, he plays an important role by enabling Fun88 to connect with more basketball fans across the Asian region, including in markets such as the Philippines, Thailand and China, among other countries.

Parker became the third Hall of Fame brand ambassador for Fun88 after the company clinched similar collaborations with stars such as Steve Nash and the late Kobe Bryant. Undoubtedly, the latest collaboration would help the fast-growing brand engage with more basketball fans across Asia, considering Parker’s strong presence on social media. Currently, the basketball superstar has a staggering 1 million fans on the Chinese platform Weibo, as well as 3 million Facebook followers and 2 million fans on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

“I’m thrilled to be following Steve and Kobe’s lead as Fun88’s latest basketball frontman, as we look forward to an exciting renewal of the NBA campaign.“

Tony Parker, brand ambassador for Fun88

Commenting on the topic, Parker said that he is thrilled to join Fun88 as a brand ambassador after the company previously joined forces with Kobe and Steve. “They have built a brand here which directly aligns with my playing values of speed and strength, underpinned by a desire to operate as a team and confound the critics,” he added.

The Betting Brand Is Thrilled to Team Up with the Basketball Star

Fun88’s new brand ambassador said that he is looking forward to delivering unique and engaging insights, as well as premium content for bettors and sports fans across Asian markets. “From China to Thailand, these fans are making it rain! Hopefully, we can find some innovative offers and deeper connections for players to better engage with the sports they love,” explained Parker in conclusion.

“We’re naturally delighted to have secured further net gains for Fun88’s unrivalled ambassadorial roster by signing Tony,“

explained a representative for Fun88

A representative of Fun88 revealed that the company is thrilled to enter into this partnership with the famous NBA star. The representative spoke about Parker’s unquestionable popularity across the globe, predicting that basketball and sports fans are going to like the insights and activations he participates in. Finally, Fun88’s representative predicted that the company will be able to engage with new audiences supported by Parker.

Outside of the basketball vertical, Fun88 has established partnerships with Newcastle United FC, as well as Tottenham Hotspur, two Premier League clubs. The company also has other soccer and cricket-facing deals.

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The global gaming community is in shock as news broke of the unexpected passing of Tony Santo, the visionary CEO and director of Gateway Casinos & Entertainment. 

Gateway Casinos Bids Farewell to CEO Tony Santo

Gateway Casinos & Entertainment, a prominent player in the gaming arena, confirmed the heartbreaking news. Tolek Strukoff, president of Gateway, expressed deep sorrow, saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tony Santo. You could often find Tony visiting sites and staff from dawn to dusk connecting about their work, families, and lives. Tony was an iconic leader in the US and Canada and grew Gateway from a small regional gaming company to one of the largest gaming companies in Canada.  However, Tony would say himself he didn’t do it – we did it together.”

Santo’s journey with Gateway commenced in 2013 when he took the reins as president and CEO, leaving an indelible mark on the company’s trajectory. By 2017, he had become a pivotal figure on the company’s board. The extent of Santo’s influence was far beyond the boardroom. He was known for his hands-on approach, frequently immersing himself in the operations and connecting with staff at all levels

A graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Santo’s expertise spanned the hospitality and gaming sectors. His leadership roles in Las Vegas earned him a reputation as an industry luminary. He eventually moved north to Canada, propelling Gateway to its present stature.

Santo announced his retirement plans in December 2019, only for the pandemic to indefinitely postpone his departure. Undeterred, he remained at the helm, guiding the company through unprecedented challenges.

Gateway Overcomes Ransomware Setback, Focuses on Data Security

Gateway, which employs around 7,000 individuals and operates thousands of slot machines and table games, faced a significant setback earlier this year due to a ransomware attack. The incident prompted a temporary closure of its Ontario casinos, raising concerns about data security. Though the company assured no guest information was compromised, the personal details of select employees were possibly accessed. A week after the attack Gateway initiated a phased reopening of its properties. 

With the incident’s aftermath, Gateway undertook a comprehensive restoration of its IT systems with support from cybersecurity experts. The breach, while unsettling, reinforced the company’s commitment to safeguarding its employees’ information. In other news, Gateway Casinos & Entertainment joined forces with Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) in an affiliate marketing deal. Gateway customers in Ontario gained easy access to OLG’s iGaming and online sports betting, improving player experiences while maintaining responsible gambling practices.

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