Charlotte to host NBA All-Star Game in 2017
New York, June 24 (IANS) The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced that Charlotte has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2017.
Last time the Charlotte Hornets hosted an All-Star Game was in 1991 while this game is scheduled for February 19, 2017, reports Xinhua.
The Hornets are owned by Michael Jordan, the six-time NBA champion, who has sought to bring the game to Charlotte since he became the team's majority owner in 2010. Meanwhile, the city agreed to pay about $30 million for renovations to the arena when the Hornets submitted their All-Star bid.
"As a thriving city with a proud basketball tradition and a deep passion for the game, the city of Charlotte is a terrific All-Star destination. We thank Michael Jordan, the Hornets organisation and the Charlotte community for their support and congratulate them on bringing our All-Star festivities back to North Carolina," said NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Tuesday.
Jordan, a 14-time All-Star, last played in the All-Star Game in Charlotte 24 years ago.
"It is an honour to bring NBA All-Star back to Charlotte. I remember the excitement of playing in the 1991 All-Star Game, the first one held in my home state and I take pride in being able to host NBA All-Star 2017 as the owner of the Hornets," Jordan said.
"This is a great moment for our fans, our city, and our franchise. We are excited to welcome the world to Charlotte and Time Warner Cable Arena in 2017."