The 73rd NBA All-Star Game brought a four-day weekend of exciting events and festivities February 15-18. The weekend not only showcased the best in basketball, but also highlighted why Indy is the perfect choice for your next big event. Indy showcased its hospitality and vibrant atmosphere while hosting fan activations, professional sporting events, and basketball celebrations, garnering praise from attendees, celebrities, and influential media. The city's walkable layout, friendly locals, and accessible amenities solidified the Circle City's reputation as an ideal destination for group business. As NBA star and former Indiana Pacers player Reggie Miller states, "Indiana is different when it comes to basketball."

"Everyone was invested in us. Yes, being in L.A., Chicago or New York, there are bigger markets. But we're in this together in a small market. We laughed and cried together. ... That's why Indiana is different when it comes to basketball."

-Reggie Miller

Connected Downtown

The walkable downtown event footprint of Indianapolis was a key asset for the NBA All-Star weekend. With all events and activations located within a compact area, fans were able to easily navigate between venues, enhancing their overall experience. The city's compact downtown allowed for pop-up activations, downtown DJs, interactive art installations, and experiences for all within walking distance of the city's major venues. In short, as Adam Silver and Joey Graziano state, Indy is the events city. 

“Indianapolis is not just the best sports event city, it's the best event city on earth."

Joey Graziano, NBA Executive

 

Venues and Local Dining

The NBA's choice of venues for All-Star Weekend was nothing short of spectacular, with all venues surrounded by thriving local businesses near the convention center. From the iconic Gainbridge Fieldhouse and the new Bicentennial Unity Plaza to Lucas Oil Stadium and bustling Georgia Street, fans got an unmatched experience for the weekend's events. But the true marker of a beloved city is its appeal as a culinary destination. Indy's vast array of award-winning restaurants and favorited eateries was a focal point during NBA All-Star Weekend. Local restaurant Kountry Kitchen Soul Food Place, received the most praise for Shaquille O'Neil. 

 

Read More About Indy's Venues and Restaurants Here.

 

Community Connections

Indy got a makeover as it transformed into the ultimate basketball court extravaganza. From BUTTER at Indy's Home Court, to Indiana Historical Society's Hoosier Historia, and a full-size basketball court at Indianapolis International Airport, named the top airport in North America for the past 11 years, Indianapolis was teeming with basketball installations and activations. Former WNBA star and Olympian Tamika Catchings shared her excitement for being a part of the action.

Indy's unmatched use of community connection allows for unique fan experiences. To quote NBA Commissioner Adam Silver once more, "Everyone’s come together in a bipartisan fashion and in a community fashion to support the game of basketball and the NBA for this special occasion."

 

#LoveIndy