The Albuquerque Thunderbirds of the NBA Development League and Isleta Casino and Resort have entered into a two-year presenting sponsor partnership.

“When you look at all of the different entertainment options that are available at Isleta Casino and Resort, this partnership makes perfect sense,” Albuquerque team president Billy Widner said. “We have some really great ideas about how to promote the family entertainment options such as fishing, bowling, golf, concerts, and sporting events while also reminding people that Isleta is the premier gaming facility in the area.”

As part of the agreement, Isleta Casino and Resort will be featured in all Thunderbirds media including radio, television, and print ads and the Isleta logo will be proudly displayed at all home games. Plus, Isleta will sponsor a Michael Cooper Bobblehead Doll to be given away at one game during the inaugural season.

Isleta Casino & Resort is owned and operated by the Pueblo of Isleta and is located just off Interstate 25 in Albuquerque. The Casino and Resort features a beautiful 27-hole golf course, 1,700 slots and thirty table games. Isleta Casino is open Monday - Wednesday from 8 a.m. - 4 a.m. and operates 24 hours a day on Thursday – Sunday. To find out more information about Isleta Casino, call (505) 869-3111 or log on to www.isletacasinoresort.com.

The Thunderbirds tip off the 2005-06 home-opener Friday, Nov. 25 against the Tulsa 66ers beginning at 7 p.m. at Tingley Coliseum. The regular season begins with back-to-back outings against the 66ers in Tulsa on Nov. 18-19.