IMG ARENA, a sports content and technology business, will become the official data supplier for sports betting for the National Basketball League of Canada (NBL Canada).

Using IMG ARENA’s technology, fans will be able to enjoy real-time data, allowing NBL Canada to grow their reach while also offering sportsbook operators new content. 

NBL Canada vice president of operations, Audley Stephenson, commented on the move: “This is an important step for NBL Canada as we move into the sports betting realm and it’s an honour to do so with such a respected and experienced partner in this space.”

MG ARENA delivers live streaming for over 500 global sportsbook brands and data feeds 45,000 sports events annually, as well as for on-demand virtual sports products and front-end solutions, including the UFC Event Centre. 

IMG ARENA’s clients include the ATP, UFC, DP World Tour, PGA Tour, EuroLeague, MLS and the FA.

Stephen continued: “The IMG relationship reinforces the importance of our longevity as a league.”

“If we had not had that, we wouldn’t be here talking about this deal now.

“This deal further cements the league’s stability. 

“This is a global sport, it only makes sense for us to expand globally.

“We have done a good job as a league by virtue of our players playing all over the world, and this is just another way of reinforcing the league’s presence,” said 

IMG ARENA rights director, Mark Wrigley, also said: “NBL Canada is an established organisation with an exciting brand.”

“We are delighted they have chosen IMG ARENA to work with them on their entry into sports betting and look forward to building a strong relationship to help grow their offering and audience by engaging fans around the world.”

The growth comes as the sports betting landscape in Canada continues to evolve.