LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State Athletics announced Friday that White Sands Federal Credit Union has acquired the naming rights to the Pan American Center, Director of Athletics Joe Fields announced. Through the partnership, the longtime home of Aggie men's basketball, women's basketball and volleyball will become White Sands Federal Credit Union Arena at the Pan American Center.
 
This deal was created in partnership with Van Wagner in conjunction with NM State Athletics Director of Athletics Joe Fields.
 
NM State announced it has reached a 10-year, $13 million agreement with White Sands Federal Credit Union that grants the organization naming rights to the arena through the 2035-36 academic year. The agreement marks the first naming rights deal in the history of the facility, which opened nearly 58 years ago and hosted its first event on Nov. 30, 1968.
 
Since opening in 1968, the Pan American Center has served as the home venue for countless NM State Athletics events while also hosting concerts, commencement ceremonies, community gatherings and entertainment acts. The facility remains one of the most iconic venues in New Mexico and a centerpiece of the New Mexico State University experience.
 
Revenue generated through the partnership will support NM State Athletics' ongoing efforts to enhance the student-athlete experience, and overall athletics department budget in supporting its 16 NCAA Division I programs.
 
Director of Athletics Joe Fields on what the partnership means for NM State Athletics: "This is a landmark moment in the history of New Mexico State University Athletics, and I want to express my sincere appreciation to White Sands Federal Credit Union for their partnership and investment in our future. Their commitment to the Pan American Center demonstrates tremendous confidence in NMSU and the Southern New Mexico region. Partnerships like this elevate our university, strengthen our connection with the community, and position us to continue building a first-class athletics department. Special thank you to Matt LaBranche From our Van Wagner team for his leadership throughout this process."
 
White Sands Federal Credit Union on the agreement: "White Sands Federal Credit Union and our Board of Directors are extremely proud and excited to partner with New Mexico State University through this historic naming rights agreement. As two organizations deeply rooted in Southern New Mexico, we share a strong commitment to our community, its people, and its future. This partnership represents much more than placing our name on the Pan American Center; it is an investment in our region, our students, and the communities we serve. We look forward to building meaningful relationships, creating new opportunities, and making a lasting positive impact throughout Southern New Mexico for generations to come."
 
About Van Wagner
Van Wagner is a global leader in sports advertising, multimedia rights, and live event production, connecting brands and audiences through the power of sports and live experiences. Working with the world's most prominent sports leagues, teams, collegiate programs and major events, Van Wagner brings together expertise in sponsorship and media sales, high-impact advertising, collegiate multimedia rights, and live event and broadcast production. Through innovative partnerships, creative solutions and world-class execution, Van Wagner helps organizations maximize opportunities, engage audiences, and create lasting impact. For more information, visit www.vanwagner.com.
 
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