March 13, 2026 — Seattle
Alaska Airlines and the University of Washington announced Alaska Airlines and University of Washington extend landmark partnership, renewing naming rights for Alaska Airlines Arena for another 10 years in a deal valued at approximately $28 million. The renewal covers naming rights for Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion, with up to half of the airline’s annual investment supporting scholarships and community initiatives for UW student-athletes.
The agreement, which positions Alaska Airlines as the official airline of the university, builds on a decades-long relationship that began with arena naming rights in 2011. It includes sponsorships for events like Dawg Dash and the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity Gala, as well as programs such as Atmos Rewards for students and UW-themed aircraft.
Husky Stadium Naming Rights
Unlike the arena, naming rights for Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium, held by Alaska since a $41 million deal in 2015, will not be renewed. The University of Washington is taking those rights to the open market and partnering with a Seattle-based group led by Tod Leiweke to find a new sponsor, with no timeline announced.
Alaska Airlines and University of Washington extend landmark partnership, renewing naming rights for Alaska Airlines Arena excludes the stadium but maintains the airline’s broad involvement in UW athletics and campus initiatives, according to Seattle Times and MyNorthwest coverage.
Official Statements
University of Washington President Robert J. Jones said:
The University of Washington is proud to deepen our partnership with Alaska Airlines in ways that directly support students, serve our shared community, and help ensure our student-athletes have what they need to succeed in their competitions, classes and lives.
Athletics Director Pat Chun stated:
Alaska Airlines and the University of Washington have built a partnership that, for decades, has strengthened our community and expanded opportunities for students, alumni, and the broader Pacific Northwest. Alaska Airlines Arena is a storied venue that has connected generations through unforgettable moments.
Alaska Airlines Vice President of Brand and Marketing Eric Edge noted:
Seattle is our home, and the University of Washington is one of the great institutions that make this community special.
Chun added that the university is maximizing revenue streams, including potential uniform patch ads starting August 2025.
Social Media Response
UW Men’s Basketball shared excitement on X: “Excited to continue making more memories in Alaska Airlines Arena!” UW Athletics posted similar announcements on Facebook and Instagram. Alaska Airlines and University of Washington extend landmark partnership, renewing naming rights for Alaska Airlines Arena generated official team buzz but no widespread discussion on X as of March 15.
Additional coverage appeared in 247Sports, emphasizing community benefits. Alaska Airlines and University of Washington extend landmark partnership, renewing naming rights for Alaska Airlines Arena underscores Seattle’s hometown ties.
