Attending the NBA All-Star Game is a dream come true for many basketball fans. But if you want to sit courtside, that dream comes with a hefty price tag. Courtside tickets are some of the most expensive seats in any sport, and the NBA All-Star Game is no exception. In this article, we’ll explain what courtside tickets are, why they are so expensive, how much they usually cost, and how you can buy them safely.
What Are Courtside Tickets?
Courtside tickets give you a seat right next to the court. These seats are located on the floor level, just a few feet away from the action. When you sit courtside, you can see the players up close. You can hear the sneakers squeak, the coaches shout, and even the players talk to each other.
Sitting courtside also puts you in the spotlight. These seats are often shown on television. Celebrities, athletes, and famous personalities are often seen in these seats. Because of that, many fans want to buy courtside seats to enjoy the best view and experience in basketball.
Why Courtside Seats Are Expensive
Courtside seats at the NBA All-Star Game are limited. Only a small number of seats are placed around the court. This makes them exclusive. The demand is always high, but the supply is low. That drives the price up.
Other reasons for the high cost include:
Exclusive access: Some courtside tickets come with VIP benefits such as lounge access, meet-and-greet opportunities, or all-inclusive food and drinks.
Celebrity presence: Fans want to sit near celebrities and stars, which adds to the experience.
Prestige: Courtside tickets are often considered a status symbol. Owning one shows wealth and influence.
Factors That Affect the Price of Courtside Tickets
The cost of courtside tickets depends on several things:
The host city: Larger markets like Los Angeles or New York usually have higher prices than smaller cities.
The event schedule: If the game is on a weekend or during a holiday, ticket prices may increase.
Demand and resale market: If demand is high, prices on resale websites can be much higher than the original cost.
Seat location: Not all courtside seats are equal. Some are near the benches or half-court and are more expensive.
Amenities: Some tickets include access to exclusive clubs, valet parking, or premium catering.
How Much Are Courtside Tickets for NBA All Star Game
Let’s look at the actual price range. Please note that prices can vary by year, location, and seller.
Original Face Value (if available)
NBA All-Star Game courtside tickets are rarely sold to the public at face value. These are often given to sponsors, team officials, and VIPs. However, when they are available, the face value might range from:
- $2,000 to $4,000 per ticket – for lower-tier courtside seats without VIP extras
- $5,000 to $8,000 per ticket – for premium courtside seats with VIP access
Resale Market Prices
Most fans buy courtside tickets on the resale market. This means buying from websites like:
- Ticketmaster
- StubHub
- Vivid Seats
- SeatGeek
Here are typical resale prices for NBA All-Star Game courtside tickets:
| Section | Estimated Price Range |
| Behind the basket | $3,000 to $7,000 |
| Along the sideline | $6,000 to $12,000 |
| Center court | $10,000 to $25,000+ |
| VIP center court packages | $25,000 to $40,000 or more |
In 2023, for example:
A courtside ticket for the NBA All-Star Game in Salt Lake City sold for $17,500 on SeatGeek.
Other courtside seats near team benches were listed for $20,000 to $30,000.
A VIP package with lounge access, pre-game events, and all-inclusive food reached $35,000 on some platforms.
How to Buy Courtside Tickets for the NBA All-Star Game
Here are the safest and most reliable ways to purchase courtside tickets:
1. NBA Official Partners
The NBA sometimes sells tickets through its own website or through Ticketmaster. You’ll need to act fast, as these sell out quickly.
2. Resale Websites
Trusted websites like StubHub, Vivid Seats, and SeatGeek allow fans to resell tickets. These platforms verify tickets to avoid scams. Look for the “verified” badge.
3. VIP Hospitality Packages
Companies like On Location Experiences and NBA Events offer premium packages. These packages may include hotels, meals, access to practices, and of course, courtside tickets.
4. Ticket Brokers
Professional ticket brokers specialize in high-end events. While prices may be higher, brokers often have access to exclusive seating.
Tips Before You Buy
Compare prices: Use multiple websites to compare deals.
Check the view: Make sure the seat location matches your expectations.
Beware of scams: Avoid buying from unknown sellers on social media or Craigslist.
Look for refunds: Some platforms offer refunds if the game is canceled or you can’t attend.
Set a budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend before shopping.
Conclusion
Courtside tickets for the NBA All-Star Game are a premium product for die-hard fans and big spenders. Prices usually range from $2,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the seat location, amenities, and demand. While expensive, these tickets offer an unforgettable experience, making fans feel like part of the game itself.
