The Florida Panthers have announced a significant change for their home arena, securing a new naming rights partnership with Amerant Bank. Formerly known as FLA Live Arena, the venue in Sunrise, Florida, will now be officially called Amerant Bank Arena. This announcement marks an expansion of the already strong relationship between the Panthers and Amerant Bank, the largest community bank headquartered in Florida, and signals a deepened commitment to the South Florida community.
This name change follows a year-long search conducted with WME Sports, ultimately concluding that strengthening ties with Amerant Bank was the most strategic move. According to Panthers President & CEO Matt Caldwell, the decision aligns with both organizations’ dedication to exceptional customer service and serving the local South Florida area. He expressed gratitude to Amerant Bank Chairman and CEO Jerry Plush, as well as Broward County and City of Sunrise officials, for their support in establishing this premier partnership.
Alt text: Official announcement of Amerant Bank Arena partnership between Florida Panthers and Amerant Bank, showcasing logo and venue exterior.
Amerant Bank’s commitment to South Florida is evident through its extensive presence in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties. With multiple branches, an operations center, and a recently announced Broward County Regional Headquarters in Plantation, Amerant Bank is deeply embedded in the local economy. This arena naming rights agreement further solidifies their investment and dedication to the region.
Beyond the arena naming rights, Amerant Bank will continue to sponsor the premium center-ice seating area known as ‘Amerant Vault’. They also remain committed to supporting youth initiatives through the Panthers Kids Club and youth hockey programs. This continued involvement demonstrates Amerant Bank’s holistic approach to community engagement, spanning from professional sports to youth development.
The partnership between the Panthers and Amerant Bank has a history of impactful community initiatives. A prime example is the ‘Saves for Vets’ campaign from last season. For every save made by a Panthers goaltender, $40 was donated to veteran-focused non-profit organizations. This initiative, totaling over $120,440 in donations, benefited nine organizations in the South Florida area, including Broward County Community Development Corporation and Soldiers’ Angels. This campaign highlights the shared commitment of both organizations to giving back to the community and supporting important causes.
Alt text: Amerant Vault premium seating area inside Amerant Bank Arena, offering exclusive views of Florida Panthers games and events.
Jerry Plush, Chairman and CEO of Amerant Bank, emphasized that expanding the partnership to include arena naming rights was a natural progression. He stated that this decision underscores their support for the Panthers organization and their growing commitment to the people and businesses of Broward County. Amerant Bank aims to be the preferred bank in the markets they serve, and this arena partnership is a significant step in achieving that goal and demonstrating their dedication to the region.
The relationship between the Florida Panthers and Amerant Bank began in 2021, with Amerant Bank becoming the team’s first-ever official home helmet partner. This initial step quickly evolved, with Amerant Bank becoming the home and away helmet partner the following season, as well as the ‘Official Bank of the Florida Panthers’. The naming rights agreement for Amerant Bank Arena is the latest and most prominent milestone in this expanding and mutually beneficial partnership.
Amerant Bank Arena is not just the home of the Florida Panthers; it is a premier entertainment destination in South Florida. The venue hosts a diverse range of events, from major concert headliners like Elton John and Harry Styles to family shows like Disney on Ice and Monster Jam. It has also been the location for significant NHL events, including the NHL Draft and the NHL All-Star Game. Additionally, the arena is a hub for community events, corporate functions, and youth sports, further cementing its role as a vital part of the South Florida landscape.
Alt text: Daytime exterior shot of Amerant Bank Arena showcasing modern architecture and surrounding landscape in Sunrise, Florida.
For those seeking tickets to Florida Panthers games or other events at Amerant Bank Arena, single game tickets are currently on sale. Tickets can be purchased through SeatGeek.com or at the Amerant Bank Arena Box Office. Florida Panthers Territory Members also receive exclusive benefits throughout the team’s 30th anniversary season. More information on Territory Memberships can be found at FloridaPanthers.com/TerritoryMemberships.
About Amerant Bank
Amerant Bank, N.A., is the largest community bank based in Florida and a subsidiary of Amerant Bancorp Inc. (NYSE: AMTB). With a strong presence across South Florida, Tampa, and Houston, Texas, Amerant Bank has served clients for over 40 years. The bank’s subsidiaries include Amerant Investments and Amerant Mortgage, offering a comprehensive suite of financial services. Amerant Bank is deeply rooted in the communities it serves, actively supporting numerous non-profit and community organizations. In 2023, Amerant Bank was recognized as a Most Loved Workplace® by Best Practice Institute, highlighting its commitment to both its customers and employees. For further details and news, visit the Amerant Newsroom.
