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KFC Yum! Center enters three-year partnership with Russ Smith's Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company

The former Louisville Cardinals star is back at his basketball home and ready for fans to experience his brand of bourbon.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The KFC Yum! Center has announced a new three-year partnership with former Louisville Cardinals basketball star Russ Smith.

Smith’s Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company (MMBC) will now be featured at its Main Concourse and brand promotions throughout the KFC Yum! Center.

The KFC Yum! Center said they will continue their commitment to offering “unparalleled experiences” with fans and patrons while holding exclusive tasting events and signature cocktails created with Smith’s bourbon brand.

In addition to the partnership, a new Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company bar will open on the center’s Main Concourse in September. Fans will get to experience the product at concerts and basketball games held there.

"We are thrilled to welcome Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company into the KFC Yum! Center," Eric Granger, General Manager of the KFC Yum! Center, said in a statement. "Our bourbon partners are integral to our success, and this new addition enhances our ability to provide unique and memorable experiences for our guests.”

Smith is a celebrated figure in Louisville basketball and played at the arena from 2010 to 2014. He called the partnership “exciting” dedicated it to the UofL fans who have stuck with him throughout the years.

"This partnership is a fantastic way to celebrate our shared commitment to excellence and community. I look forward to seeing fans enjoy our bourbon in such a vibrant and dynamic setting," he said.

Credit: KFC Yum! Center
Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company founder Russ Smith and co-founder Cecy Linzey.

The Brooklyn native co-founded MMBC with Cecy Linzey in 2019.

You can visit MMBC’s website to learn more about Smith’s journey to fine spirits and check out some of the signature cocktails.

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