Master Agent Featured Articles

The third largest telecommunications company in the United States just scored from downtown.

Downtown Orlando, that is.

CenturyLink, a leader in the network services market, announced that is has signed a multi-year partnership deal with the Orlando Magic. The partnership names CenturyLink as the exclusive video provider for the NBA franchise.

What this means is that CenturyLink Prism TV service, advanced television technology with a combination of interactive features, will be highlighted throughout the partnership through touchpoints with fans in-arena and in-market. This includes special service offers for Magic fans throughout the NBA season. The MagicTV section on OrlandoMagic.com also will also be supported by CenturyLink Prism TV service.

“We are excited about this new relationship with the Magic and are committed to providing fans a great experience through our products and services," said Erik Genrich in a statement by the company, CenturyLink vice president and general manager.

The marketing payoff for CenturyLink from this partnership dovetails on the recent IPTV (News - Alert) growth the company has seen recently in Florida, one of the first markets where the company has rolled out the service.

In the second quarter, CenturyLink added upwards of 12,200 Prism TV subscribers. This is up 10 percent sequentially from the first quarter of 2013. The service has seen market penetration of almost 9 percent, including Phoenix and Colorado Springs.

"The Magic is thrilled to partner with a high-quality brand like CenturyLink," noted Orlando Magic CEO Alex Martins. "As a leader in the telecommunications industry, CenturyLink will continue to push the Magic to the forefront of the digital world. We are excited about the new opportunities this partnership will present to our fans and the Central Florida community for years to come."

CenturyLink also is excited about the partnership and the increased relationship this will bring with Central Florida, according to the company. It currently is one of the area’s largest employers, and it has a number of volunteer programs, as well as both monetary and in-kind support for local charities. One charity supported by the company is the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation.

“CenturyLink is proud of our dedication to the area,” noted Genrich.