KeyBank Center Naming Rights Extended
The KeyBank Center, home to the Buffalo Sabres, will retain its name thanks to a newly extended naming rights agreement announced on Wednesday. This 10-year deal, which will take effect in the upcoming year, extends through the 2035-36 season. KeyBank, a financial institution based in Cleveland, gained the naming rights following its acquisition of First Niagara Bank in 2016, and has since established a significant local presence in Buffalo. As part of the updated agreement, KeyBank’s branding will also appear on the Sabres’ helmets during away games starting this season.
Arena Renovations and Upcoming Events
In addition to the naming rights news, the arena, which has been in operation since 1996, is currently undergoing essential renovations. Recent improvements include a new roof and a state-of-the-art video scoreboard situated above center ice. Future upgrades are set to enhance seating comfort and fan amenities.
The Sabres manage the KeyBank Center, which also serves as the venue for the National Lacrosse League’s championship-winning Bandits. Under the leadership of new chief operating officer Pete Guelli, the team is actively pursuing more events to be hosted at the arena. Notable upcoming events include a concert by Paul McCartney during his North American tour and an exciting pre-Olympic match between U.S. and Canada in the women’s hockey Rivalry Series, both scheduled for November.
Challenges on the Ice
On the ice, however, the Sabres are facing challenges, continuing an NHL-record streak of 14 seasons without making the playoffs, a situation that fans hope will change soon.
