The G-Men are now the first NFL team to partner with a cryptocurrency company.
It was only a matter of time before the cryptocurrency world set its sights on America’s most popular sport. And after crypto firms struck recent deals with the Miami Heat, New Jersey Devils, and a growing number of global soccer clubs, Grayscale Investments is leading the rush to the NFL, going into business with the New York Giants.
With more than $46 billion in assets under management, Grayscale is the world’s largest digital currency asset manager. As of Wednesday, they’re the Giants’ Official Digital Currency Asset Management Partner, and the first in pro football overall.
The first of many, it’s safe to say.
“We are excited to partner with Grayscale, who are innovative leaders in the digital currency market. During our extensive evaluation of the space, we determined that we not only wanted a partner that understood the value of aligning with the Giants brand, but also could guide us in navigating the cryptocurrency ecosystem,” Giants Chief Commercial Officer Pete Guelli said in an official release.
Grayscale Investments plans to host weekly cryptocurrency seminars for Giants players and personnel as an increasing number of athletes across the sports landscape invest in the space. This comes on the heels of Carolina Panthers offensive tackle Russell Okung making headlines when he revealed that he had half of his 2020 salary converted into Bitcoin; as crypto companies continue to intertwine with sports and educate athletes, it’s more than safe to say Okung’s exceptional move will be a relatively common one in the years to come.
“Our partnership with the Giants is incredibly meaningful because our roots are in New York,” said Grayscale CEO Michael Sonnenshein. “We’re excited to partner with such a forward-thinking franchise, to work together on philanthropic initiatives, and to continue to support the New York metropolitan community.”
The community emphasis rooted in the tri-state area is key for the relationship. Grayscale will serve as a presenting sponsor for Giants home games, as well as the annual Giants Foundation Golf Outing, a marquee event on the team’s charity calendar. They’ll additionally be a supporting sponsor of the team’s 2021 Training Camp.
“Grayscale quickly emerged as a company that shares our passion for the New York market, but also has the institutional knowledge and network of partners that we can access as crypto continues to evolve,” Guelli said.
From here on out, where Big Blue’s blockchain journey goes, a host of NFL teams are sure to follow.