NBA China and eHi Car Rental, one of the leading car rental services providers in China and an affiliate of eHi Car Services (NYSE: EHIC), announced on Monday a multiyear marketing partnership that will make eHi the Official Car Rental Services Partner of the NBA in China.
The new partnership marks NBA China's first relationship in the rental and chauffeured car services category and eHi's first association with a professional sports league.
Throughout the year, eHi will have the opportunity to promote its car rental services to NBA fans across the country along with being integrated into NBA China's marquee events.
"The NBA is a global and forward-thinking brand, and many of our valued customers are enthusiastic fans of the NBA," said eHi Chairman and CEO Ray Zhang. "This partnership will help spread passion for basketball and enhance customers' interests and confidence in eHi. Reaching out to sports fans is a significant formula to introduce our brand and to connect with more automotive users through our online and offline channels."
"We are pleased to welcome eHi to the NBA family, as this partnership will help the NBA reach more fans in China through eHi's broad geographic reach," said NBA China CEO David Shoemaker. "We look forward to working with such a dynamic young company that will help us continue to grow the game of basketball in China."
Monday's announcement builds on eHi's existing endorsement deal with Golden State Warriors point guard and reigning back-to-back NBA Most Valuable Player Stephen Curry to showcase eHi's products and services to fans across China.
About eHi Car Services Limited
eHi Car Services Limited (NYSE: EHIC) is one of the leading car services providers and car rentals providers. The Company's mission is to provide comprehensive mobility solutions as an alternative to car ownership by best utilizing existing resources and sharing economy to create optimal value. eHi distinguishes itself in China's fast-growing car rental and car services market through its complementary business model, customer-centric corporate culture, broad geographic coverage, efficient fleet management, leading brand name, and commitment to technological innovation. eHi is the exclusive strategic partner in China of Enterprise, the largest car rental company in the world, and is the designated and preferred business partner of Ctrip, a leader in the online travel agency industry in China. The eHi brand is now available at more than 2,800 locations across China, including branches at key airports and major cities, operating a fleet in excess of 50,000 vehicles.
About NBA China
NBA China is headquartered in Beijing and also has offices in Shanghai, Hong Kong and Taipei. NBA licensed products such as apparel and footwear are available through various retail networks and authorized online stores on e-commerce and social media platforms, including Tmall.com, JD.com and WeChat. In 2004, the NBA became the first American professional sports league to play games in China, with two games between the Houston Rockets and the Sacramento Kings in Shanghai and Beijing. Following NBA Global Games China 2016, 13 NBA teams have played 22 games in Greater China.
