As the weekend approaches, sports fans and entertainment seekers alike are gearing up for an exciting array of events. The NBA All-Star Weekend is set to take over Indianapolis, bringing with it a plethora of activities that promise to entertain and engage attendees. From concerts to interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone in this Weekend Entertainment Guide: What to Watch.
The highlight of the weekend is undoubtedly the NBA Crossover event at the Indiana Convention Center. This fan experience is not just about basketball; it features a star-studded concert series. Kicking off the festivities, T-Pain and Zedd will take the stage at 9 PM on Friday. Saturday will see country music stars Keith Urban and Walker Hayes perform at 3 PM, while hip-hop icon Lil Wayne will close out the weekend with a performance at 4 PM on Sunday. Tickets for NBA Crossover start at $20 for kids and $35 for adults, with VIP options available for those looking for a more exclusive experience.
For those who appreciate the roots of hip-hop, Indianapolis-native Mike Epps is hosting the All-Star Throwback event at the Madam Walker Legacy Center on Friday at 7 PM. This concert will feature classic rap legends such as Rakim, Greg Nice, Kwamé, Monie Love, Dana Dane, and Chubb Rock. Tickets for this nostalgic journey into hip-hop history start at $96.
On Saturday night, the ATL vibe will hit Indianapolis as rapper 2 Chainz takes over The Vogue at 10 PM. Fans can grab tickets starting at $75 to enjoy a night filled with high-energy performances.
For those looking to meet NBA talent, Lids is hosting the Homegrown Basketball Pop-Up at 50 S. Meridian St. from today through Monday. This event will feature appearances from retired Pacer Jalen Rose, who will be signing autographs and taking photos with fans on Saturday from 1-2 PM. Best of all, these appearances are free to the public.
Foot Locker is also getting in on the action with its Home Court activation space at 49 W. Maryland St. This expansive 50,000 square-foot area will offer a variety of experiences, including an interactive LED half-court, daily basketball clinics, sneaker trialing, customization stations, and exclusive product releases. It’s a must-visit for sneakerheads and basketball enthusiasts alike.
For a unique experience, attendees can immerse themselves in the PUMA x Cheetos Interactive Experience at 2 S. Meridian St. This event features a 3D larger-than-life Cheetos bag, a live Cheetos maze, a hoops court, and plenty of giveaways. The fun runs from 2-7 PM tomorrow and noon to 7 PM on Saturday.
Basketball fans can catch the PUMA Hoops Dunk Show featuring celebrity judges, including NBA trainer Chris Brickley and two-time WNBA champion Jackie Young, at 1:30 PM on Saturday at 658 E. St. Clair St. This event promises to be a thrilling showcase of athleticism and entertainment.
Additionally, Pacers star Myles Turner will host the 3’s For Charity event from 4-5 PM tomorrow at the STARRY AR3NA LED court inside the Indiana Convention Center. Participants can make three-pointers to help score meals for Gleaners Food Bank, combining fun with a good cause.
Food lovers can experience a taste of New York at the Brotherhood Deli, a four-day pop-up shop inspired by classic bodegas and delis. Sponsored by Chase Freedom and the National Basketball Players Association, this shop will be open from Friday to Monday at Circle Centre Mall, featuring daily happy hours, DJ sets, and meet-and-greets with NBA players like Obi Toppin and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Comedy fans won’t want to miss Druski, who will perform at two pregame parties this weekend. Catch him at Dave & Busters on Friday night or at the Murat Center Oasis Lounge on Sunday afternoon. Tickets for Friday start at $40, while Sunday tickets begin at $75.
The NBA on TNT American Express Road Show will be hosted at the Indiana Convention Center all weekend long, starting tonight at 6:30 PM. This event will feature performances from Machine Gun Kelly and Shaquille O’Neal, along with fan competitions, photo opportunities, and live broadcasts with sports personalities like Ernie Johnson and Charles Barkley.
Gamers can get in on the action at the AT&T Presents NBA 2K League Indy Showdown at 3 PM on Friday. This event will see professional athletes, including Tyrese Haliburton and Micah Parsons, compete against pro gamers in thrilling 2K matchups.
Local rap legends will take the stage at Chreece Presents Nap City The Basement at 2 PM on Friday at The Suite, located at 10 W. Washington St. This free show is a great opportunity to support local talent and enjoy some live music.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, Google Pixel is hosting a series of skills training sessions and open court events at The Crane Bay Event Center. This free event runs from tomorrow through Sunday and will also feature an HBCU pep rally and an All-Star Saturday Night watch party.
Families can enjoy a special NBA Mascot Breakfast from 8-10 AM on Saturday at the Indiana Convention Center. Tickets for this fun-filled morning are priced at $159, offering a unique opportunity to meet beloved mascots.
In a more serious tone, Emerald Garner, daughter of the late Eric Garner, will speak at a free event at Martin University tonight at 6 PM. This event aims to raise awareness and promote discussions around social justice issues.
Wrapping up the weekend, Grammy-nominated rapper Jelly Roll will headline the NBA on TNT All-Star Celebration concert on Friday night. Tickets for this highly anticipated performance start at $50, promising a night of unforgettable music.
Finally, fans can recreate the experience of being the first overall pick in the WNBA draft at the NBA Crossover event, which runs from Friday through Sunday. Attendees can take photos on a special WNBA set and meet some of the league’s biggest stars, including Indiana Fever’s Aliyah Boston, who will be available for a meet-and-greet on Saturday from 1-1:30 PM.
This weekend is packed with entertainment options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or just looking for a fun outing, the NBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis is the place to be.
Source: Axios
