The move comes as part of an expanded partnership between the North American division of the company and NCAA.

Nissan will have an increased presence at major NCAA men's basketball events, including the season-ending final four tournament.

The deal became active yesterday, the first day of the new NCAA academic calendar.

"We look forward to our partnership with Nissan, and we are pleased that the company, with its strong brand, has committed its support to NCAA student-athlete achievement, intercollegiate athletics and higher education," NCAA director of championships and Alliances, corporate relations, marketing and branding Ellen Lucey said.

Nissan's foray into basketball sees the company extend its presence within college sport in the United States.

The multinational firm also has partnerships with 33 of the most high-profile college athletics departments from eight key regions under terms of the new agreement.

Nissan sponsors the Heisman Trophy, the top annual award in NCAA American football.

"Through our Heisman Trophy sponsorship, Nissan has been synonymous with college football for well over a decade, and now, we are leveraging that momentum to expand our commitment with another icon of college sports," said Allyson Witherspoon, vice-president of marketing communications and media at Nissan North America.