NEW YORK – American Express and The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced a first-of-its-kind digital destination on NBA.com, entitled “Off the Court,” which will bring the game and some of its best players to life for fans by exploring shared personal passions, pursuits and interests.

This online destination continues the innovative partnership that NBA and American Express have taken to connect fans with the game in new, engaging and meaningful ways and will feature live video chats with NBA players, legends and coaches, a multi-part video series around the players’ passions, daily posts from basketball insiders, contests and more throughout the season.

As part of the launch, “Off the Court” is unveiling the first of its multi-part video series featuring four-time NBA All-Star Rajon Rondo and his love of fashion. Additional player videos are slated throughout the season and will include two-time NBA Champion Chris Bosh and NBA All-Star Joakim Noah discussing their own off-the-court passions.

Fans will also be able to participate in live video chats with many of their favorite NBA players, legends and coaches to learn about their off-court interests, basketball and more. Hosted by NBA legend Rick Fox, these chats will allow fans to submit their own questions in real-time via social media. Fans can also chat with each other, reacting to player’s comments and join in on the excitement.

“The excitement of the NBA goes far beyond what happens on the court,” said Deborah Curtis, vice president, Sports & Entertainment Marketing, American Express. “We saw an opportunity to create a new destination where fans can go to see the person behind the player, and connect with the game in a completely new and intimate way. With our NBA partnership, we want to redefine the way that fans experience the game by giving basketball fans a chance to celebrate and explore shared passions with NBA players they love.”

“Our partnership with American Express has been defined by our collaboration to provide all NBA fans with unique live experiences and insider perspectives on our game,” said Emilio Collins, senior vice president, Global Marketing Partnerships, NBA. “The launch of ‘Off the Court’ gives fans access to a wealth of new and exciting NBA content and reinforces American Express’ commitment to innovation.”

The “Off the Court” Challenge will also give fans access to special offers, ticket and merchandise promotions from NBATickets.com and NBAStore.com, along with the opportunity to win prizes. American Express will invite fans each month to demonstrate their own “Off the Court” passions, such as fashion, music, food or gaming, for the opportunity to win dream experiences like premium game tickets and meet & greets with NBA players. Full details on “Off the Court” Challenge, Official Rules and how fans can participate are found at nba.com/offthecourt. [1]

This new, online destination will additionally serve as the new exclusive home to NBA.com’s marquee blog, Hang Time, and will host content from the popular All Ball and 10 Before Tip blogs. This content, along with all of the other features of “Off the Court,” will also be optimized for mobile devices.

As the Official Credit Card of the NBA, WNBA, and NBA D-League, American Express will continue to provide Card Members with exclusive experiences and access to regular-season and playoff games, along with premier events such as NBA All-Star and the NBA Draft presented by State Farm. Card Members will also be able to participate in NBA-themed hospitality events, behind-the-scenes access, exclusive offers through team partnerships, and opportunities to meet NBA players and legends.

About American Express

American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, foursquare.com/americanexpress,  linkedin.com/companies/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress.

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