Betsson Group has announced that from the 2025-26 season, Lithuania’s premier basketball league will be officially known as Betsson-LKL.

This marks a new phase in Betsson’s long-standing partnership with the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL). Since 2017, the Betsafe brand has served as the league’s title sponsor, supporting the continued development of professional basketball in the country. Earlier this year, Betsafe in Lithuania was rebranded to Betsson.

A refreshed visual identity for the league has also been unveiled, marking the beginning of this new chapter.

“This step allows us to further strengthen our position in the market, offer customers the benefits of our technology platform, and continue upholding high standards of responsible gaming,” said Aurimas Šilys, Head of Betsson Lithuania.

“We are grateful for a partnership that goes beyond branding. Our work with Betsson Group is rooted in a shared vision – to develop a top-tier basketball league in Lithuania that inspires fans and players alike,” said Rasa Liuimienė, General Director of the LKL.

The upcoming Betsson-LKL season will officially commence in autumn 2025.

• Brace Yourself campaign gives supporters chance to win at every home league match

• Cash prize awarded every time a home player scores two goals

• Midnite will match winning prize pot with charitable donation

Fast-growing UK sportsbook Midnite will give Sheffield United and Southampton fans the chance to net £1,000 at every home league match throughout the new season.

Midnite is the front-of-shirt sponsor for Sheffield United and the back-of-shirt sponsor for Southampton and is launching the Brace Yourself campaign for supporters of both clubs.

It means every time a home player scores twice – a brace – one lucky member of the matchday crowd will grab a grand or possibly more – if no brace is scored, the prize pool will roll over to the next home match.

Midnite will also match the prize pool with a donation to charity close to each club.

Fans at Bramall Lane and St Mary’s can enter by scanning QR codes placed around the stadiums and in the matchday programmes and a seat number will be drawn at random before kick-off.

Brace Yourself kicks off on Saturday (August 9) when Southampton host Wrexham and Sheffield United entertain Bristol City.

Andrew Mook, Midnite’s Head of Brand Marketing, said: “We want fans to be on the edge of their seats throughout the season.

“When a home player scores a brace in the EFL Championship this season, Midnite will reward one lucky fan with a cash prize giveaway. Starting off at £1,000 and rolling over each week if there isn’t a winner, the excitement should build throughout the campaign.

“Midnite will also match the fan prize and donate the same amount to a local charity, in a bid to repay some of the amazing work that they do within the local community.”

Midnite’s Brace Yourself campaign is open to fans aged 18 and older.

GK8, Asia’s leading platform for interactive gaming and entertainment, has announced football legend Michael Owen as its new brand ambassador. With a reputation built on trust, security and a diverse range of gaming options, GK8 continues to expand its influence in the iGaming sector, and Owen’s partnership is set to bolster its position in the competitive industry.

Michael Owen, a former English football star known for his exceptional skills and quick pace on the field, brings his star power to the fast-growing brand. With years of success both on and off the pitch, Owen’s influence will help enhance GK8’s visibility across key international markets. The partnership marks a pivotal moment for the company, reflecting its ambition to continue expanding globally while maintaining its commitment to a high standard of user experience.

“It’s an honor to be working with such a dynamic and forward-thinking brand like GK8. Their dedication to creating a secure, engaging platform aligns perfectly with my values. I look forward to connecting with fans and players in Southeast Asia, sharing in the excitement and entertainment that GK8 offers,” said Michael Owen.

Founded with a vision to bring top-tier gaming experiences to Asia, GK8 has rapidly grown into a major force in the interactive gaming industry. The platform is recognised for its advanced security measures, seamless user interface and wide selection of games, including sports, lotteries and multiplayer online options. GK8’s unique approach to customer service has helped them build a loyal global community, with users praising its responsive support team and fast transactions.