KeyBank and the Buffalo Sabres have confirmed a 10-year extension of their naming rights agreement for the team's home arena. The updated deal, which begins with the 2026–27 season, will keep the venue’s name as KeyBank Center through the end of the 2035–36 season. KeyBank remains the official and exclusive banking partner of the Sabres.
Sabres Owner, CEO, and President Terry Pegula expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership:
“We’re grateful for KeyBank’s support over the past decade and look forward to deepening our relationship with a partner so deeply connected to Western New York. We’re proud that our arena continues to carry the name of a company so committed to our community, and we’re excited about the positive impact this partnership will continue to have.”
KeyCorp Chairman and CEO Chris Gorman added: “This renewed partnership represents an investment in Buffalo and reinforces our long-term commitment to the city. Together with the Sabres, we’re focused on creating meaningful opportunities and helping our community and clients thrive. We believe in Buffalo’s future and are honored to be part of its journey forward.”
As part of the expanded agreement, KeyBank will become the Sabres’ official away helmet sponsor beginning in the 2025–26 season. The collaboration, which began in 2015, highlights both organizations’ dedication to supporting the Western New York region.
The renewed alliance will also bring the launch of the HocKey Assists Community Program, a joint initiative aimed at uplifting the local community. This program will focus on education, supporting small businesses, and strengthening neighborhoods. It will work to inspire local youth, shine a light on emerging entrepreneurs, and bring residents together through high-impact outreach efforts.
KeyBank Buffalo Market President Mike McMahon commented: “Both KeyBank and the Sabres share a belief that a thriving community benefits everyone. With HocKey Assists, we aim to support the next generation, highlight local innovation, and connect neighborhoods through programs that make a lasting difference. As we mark KeyBank’s 200th anniversary, our collaboration with the Sabres underscores our promise to be a positive force in Buffalo and beyond.”
Buffalo Sabres COO Pete Guelli emphasized the arena’s role as a hub for the city:
“Our goal is for KeyBank Center to be more than just a sports venue — it’s a gathering place for the community. The investment from KeyBank, paired with initiatives like HocKey Assists, can help fuel economic growth and strengthen our city’s core. We’re confident this partnership will bring meaningful and lasting benefits to Buffalo.”
Additionally, starting with the 2026–27 NHL season, KeyBank customers will receive exclusive perks when attending games, concerts, and other events at the arena. The agreement extension was facilitated with support from Excel Consulting Services, a top-tier management and marketing agency.
Sabres Owner, CEO, and President Terry Pegula expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership:
“We’re grateful for KeyBank’s support over the past decade and look forward to deepening our relationship with a partner so deeply connected to Western New York. We’re proud that our arena continues to carry the name of a company so committed to our community, and we’re excited about the positive impact this partnership will continue to have.”
KeyCorp Chairman and CEO Chris Gorman added: “This renewed partnership represents an investment in Buffalo and reinforces our long-term commitment to the city. Together with the Sabres, we’re focused on creating meaningful opportunities and helping our community and clients thrive. We believe in Buffalo’s future and are honored to be part of its journey forward.”
As part of the expanded agreement, KeyBank will become the Sabres’ official away helmet sponsor beginning in the 2025–26 season. The collaboration, which began in 2015, highlights both organizations’ dedication to supporting the Western New York region.
The renewed alliance will also bring the launch of the HocKey Assists Community Program, a joint initiative aimed at uplifting the local community. This program will focus on education, supporting small businesses, and strengthening neighborhoods. It will work to inspire local youth, shine a light on emerging entrepreneurs, and bring residents together through high-impact outreach efforts.
KeyBank Buffalo Market President Mike McMahon commented: “Both KeyBank and the Sabres share a belief that a thriving community benefits everyone. With HocKey Assists, we aim to support the next generation, highlight local innovation, and connect neighborhoods through programs that make a lasting difference. As we mark KeyBank’s 200th anniversary, our collaboration with the Sabres underscores our promise to be a positive force in Buffalo and beyond.”
Buffalo Sabres COO Pete Guelli emphasized the arena’s role as a hub for the city:
“Our goal is for KeyBank Center to be more than just a sports venue — it’s a gathering place for the community. The investment from KeyBank, paired with initiatives like HocKey Assists, can help fuel economic growth and strengthen our city’s core. We’re confident this partnership will bring meaningful and lasting benefits to Buffalo.”
Additionally, starting with the 2026–27 NHL season, KeyBank customers will receive exclusive perks when attending games, concerts, and other events at the arena. The agreement extension was facilitated with support from Excel Consulting Services, a top-tier management and marketing agency.