The classic Jumpman won’t be the only logo that will be present on the front of the Charlotte Hornets’ jerseys anymore. That’s because the Hornets have signed a three-year advertising deal with LendingTree, per Katherine Peralta and Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer.
LendingTree is a Charlotte-based online marketplace that matches borrowers with lenders. A 2.5-inch LendingTree patch will now be present on the left-hand side of the Hornets' jerseys.
Hornets president Fred Whitfield was very positive about the partnership, which both organizations viewed as mutually beneficial.
“There’s so much synergy and attributes that we share as two local organizations. The partnership is such a great fit in a lot of ways,” Whitfield said.
The Hornets and LendingTree did not disclose how much the advertising agreement was worth, but Peralta and Bonnell note that industry experts estimate the deal to be worth around $5 to $7 million per year.
With the Hornets’ agreement signed, 19 of the 30 NBA teams now have jersey sponsorship deals. Prior to Charlotte, the New Orleans Pelicans were the most recent addition to the list when they signed their deal in late October.
Fans will be able to see the new LendingTree patch in Charlotte's next game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday, which is also when the Hornets will debut their “Classic Edition” vintage pinstripes and pleats uniforms.