The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. announced a comprehensive multiyear marketing relationship in support of the BACARDI® Gold rum brand which will include a series of joint marketing activities and highlight both companies’ commitment to corporate responsibility.

The agreement includes the launch of the new Gold Standard Scholarship Program which will award more than $100,000 annually to help dedicated students reach their educational goals. The program will provide financial assistance to minority students in select NBA markets who are 21 years of age or older and are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees. The scholarship program will tip off at the start of the 2010-2011 academic year. Through this partnership, BACARDI Gold will be featured in NBA national telecasts and on NBA.com, as well as through activities with the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and NBA Development League (NBA D-League).

To further the relationship, BACARDI Gold will participate with the WNBA in its annual Inspiring Women program and luncheon. This event recognizes individuals who inspire others through their commitment and dedication to work, family, and community by presenting them with the WNBA Inspiration Award.

BACARDI Gold will also host a special NBA D-League fantasy camp at the NBA Summer League, the NBA’s annual summer evaluation event featuring NBA teams whose rosters are comprised of incoming draftees, free agents and veteran players. BACARDI Gold will offer guests the unique opportunity to take part in a basketball camp featuring NBA legends, coaches, and players from the NBA D-League.