The MSG experience, last of 2 parts
To watch an NBA game, the average ticket cost is $120, and the Knicks have the priciest tickets in the league. You spend an average of $260 to get in to MSG and it does not include the $45 parking, the beers or the $9 hot dogs. The Chase Arena, where GSW call home, have the second most expensive game ticket at $203 followed by LAL at Staples Center with $190.
Settled on our cinema-like seats, we waited for the game to start with background music from their superb audio and lights system. Arena announcers thanked fans for the 19,812 sold out seats. Multiply that number by the $260 average price. Just wow!
I had been to several stadiums and covered gyms back home and every time, the experience is different. Each event has a distinct vibe, especially with the school leagues. Getting into an iconic and world-famous arena for the very first time tops it all.
At 7:00, Knicks and Laker players went to their respective locker rooms to change into their game uniforms from their warm-up gears. 30 minutes later, arena lights were dimmed, players introduced, and the Lakers received collective boos. Then the Star-Spangled Banner was sung with the NYPD color guard.
When Carmelo Anthony, a former Knick, checked in during the first quarter, he got a loud ovation from the fans. Fans stood up and cheered when he went for a break-away dunk. He and Julius Randle, a former Laker, had some testy moments guarding each other.
A couple, who were season ticket holders since 1969, were acknowledged and rewarded with $500. One spectator was asked four questions courtside on Knicks trivia, $250 per correct answer. He got the first three and when he was asked about the player who first made league history by making 9-of-9 3s in one game, Latrell Sprewell came from behind and had his arm on the man’s shoulders. The answer was obvious and he went home $1000 happier.
At halftime, another fan was selected to shot free throws within 20 seconds, each made shot equalling $250. He made four, then was brought to halfcourt for a chance to win a Kia Telluride SUV with a single attempt. He missed the shot by a mile.
There are courtside seats they call celebrity row and along with Sprewell were TV and movie stars, boxer Teofimo Lopez, NY baseball icons CC Sabathia and Darryl Strawberry. Noticeably absent was film director and rabid Knick fan Spike Lee.
With gratitude to our children Emil and Ana, MSG was a great experience. Would have been much greater had the Lakers won. Shout out to Jennise, Chelsea, Sam, Regina, Alexe and Kirsty. Thank you, beautiful ladies!
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