INDIANAPOLIS — The NBA All-Star Game is just weeks away, and Indianapolis is the host city.
That means more than 125,000 fans are coming to the Hoosier state, and businesses are getting in on the action.
The NBA and NBA All-Star 2024 Host Committee have officially launched the NBA All-Star 2024 Rewards Program, a chance for fans to win tickets, merchandise and other prizes for supporting local businesses.
Fans can download the “NBA Events” app and check-in at participating businesses and iconic basketball landmarks across the state.
The program is only for Indiana companies and organizations.
“The emphasis here is to find small businesses, small retailers, Indiana-grown retailers and try to provide incentives for fans to patronize those establishments,” said Danny Lopez with Pacers Sports & Entertainment.
So far, almost 300 businesses have joined the program, including Red’s Classic Barbershop downtown.
“I think we have been an All-Star type of city, so why not have an All-Star Game?” said William Hogg, one of the barbers.
He also hopes some popular players will stop in for a cut.
“I am going to say Tyrese Haliburton. There it is. I’m going to be a homer,” Hogg said. “Also, some of the big stars like LeBron James or Kevin Durant.”
Just down the street at Circle Centre, Kim White is preparing her shop, Circle City Souvenirs, for the big basketball weekend.
“We will have extra people. We will have extra products. We are getting All-Star merchandise in every day,” White said.
White is one of dozens of store owners in the mall who signed up for the program, saying she is thankful for the NBA and the city’s support.
“It means the world to us because we are an important part of this city. We are an important part of the fabric of downtown, and just to have them acknowledge that means an awful lot,” White said.
Fans can start using the app now to earn points.
Organizers are anticipating the NBA All-Star weekend will bring in more than $320 million in economic impact.
For more information about earning points and how a business can register to participate, you can visit their website.