FTX Loses Naming Rights To Miami Heat Arena Amid Massive Scandal

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Oklahoma City Thunder v Miami Heat
Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat drives against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter of the game at FTX Arena on January 10, 2023 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

The move was inevitable.

If you are someone who was invested in cryptocurrency, then you probably knew about FTX. Unfortunately, many people lost their life savings with the exchange as it was promptly shut down. It has since declared bankruptcy, and now, FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried is looking at a lengthy prison sentence.

Overall, things do not look good for SBF. The entrepreneur is now being charged with fraud, money laundering, and even conspiracy. Needless to say, no one wants anything to do with his company. This is especially true of sports teams who were sponsored by the exchange.

FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried leaves Manhattan Federal Court on January 03, 2023 in New York City. Bankman-Fried, who pleaded not guilty during the court hearing, has been charged with eight criminal counts of fraud, conspiracy, money-laundering offenses which includes making illegal political contributions. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

FTX Vs. Miami Heat

NBA fans are well aware of the fact that the Miami Heat's arena was called "FTX Arena." The naming rights were purchased for $135 million just two years. Since the scandal, however, the Heat has been trying to get the name removed from its building. According to TMZ, those efforts have officially become successful.

Consequently, all FTX logos will be removed from outside of the arena. Additionally, any FTX branding on the court will also have to go. Over the past month, the exchange's logos have remained on the floor in the arena, which has definitely caused some confusion.

FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried arrives for a court hearing at Manhattan Federal Court on January 03, 2023 in New York City. Bankman-Fried has been charged with eight criminal counts of fraud, conspiracy, and money-laundering offenses which includes making illegal political contributions. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

Overall, it can certainly be said that the Heat are just happy to rid themselves of the brand. Now, they won't have to field any unfortunate questions about the situation.

It remains to be seen who will win the naming rights next. Perhaps the Heat will have the foresight to stay away from crypto this time.

[Via]

About The Author
Alexander Cole is the current Managing Editor of HotNewHipHop. He started at HotNewHipHop back in 2018 where he began as a Sports and Sneakers writer. During this time, he has shown an expertise in Air Jordans, Yeezys, and all things that have to do with Nike. His favorite kicks are the Air Jordan 1 High OG, the Air Jordan 4, the Air Jordan 6, and the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 in the "Beluga 2.0" colorway. Although his collection might not be the biggest, he is always looking to add new styles to it. When it comes to sports, Alex has a particular interest in the NBA and the NFL. His favorite teams are anywhere LeBron goes, and the Kansas City Chiefs. As a Montrealer, the Montreal Canadiens hold a special place in his heart, even if they haven't won the Stanley Cup in his lifetime. Alex also works for the Concordia Stingers, where he provides play-by-play and color commentary for the football, hockey, and basketball teams His favorite hip-hop artists are Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, Travis Scott, and Lil Uzi Vert.