The NBA announced today that Indianapolis has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2021. The 70th NBA All-Star Game will take place at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, home of the Indiana Pacers, on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2021. This will mark the second NBA All-Star in Indianapolis, which hosted the midseason classic in 1985.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver made the announcement during a press conference at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. He was joined by Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett as well as Pacers Sports & Entertainment owner Herb Simon, President and Chief Operating Officer Rick Fuson and President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard.
“Indianapolis has an enduring love for basketball that creates a special connection to our All-Star Game,” said Silver. “I want to especially thank Herb Simon for his efforts to bring the All-Star festivities back to Indianapolis as well as acknowledge the strong support we received from Governor Holcomb, Mayor Hogsett, Larry Bird, Rick Fuson and the entire Pacers organization.”
Indianapolis will follow Los Angeles in 2018, Charlotte in 2019 and Chicago in 2020 as All-Star host. The NBA All-Star Game will be played at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for the first time.
“On behalf of all of us at Pacers Sports & Entertainment, I am delighted that the NBA is entrusting us with NBA All-Star 2021 and we look forward to putting on a week of events that highlights the city that I love and meets the league’s expectations,” said Simon.
“We are thrilled with the NBA’s decision to bring its showcase event, the NBA All-Star Game, to Indianapolis in 2021,” said Holcomb. “No state nurtures and loves the game of basketball more than Indiana, and I am certain that my fellow Hoosiers will embrace the game and related events with uncommon passion and support.”
“We’re so excited to welcome the world back to our city and Bankers Life Fieldhouse for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game,” said Hogsett. “Indianapolis’ legacy is one that has truly been enriched by our chase of the next big game, and that story continues thanks to what we hope will be the best NBA All-Star Game and weekend yet.”
“This is another great day in our city’s sports history as well as a fitting tribute to the longest-tenured owner in the NBA, Herb Simon,” said Fuson. “Just as we have done with so many major events in the past, we pledge to give our best efforts in making NBA All-Star 2021 exceptionally welcoming, convenient, creative and memorable.”
In partnership with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Indiana Sports Corp. and Visit Indy have worked in tandem to bring NBA All-Star 2021 to Indianapolis.
