NBA cancels hotel contracts for All-Star weekend in Indy
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — News 8 has learned the 2021 NBA All-Star Game will not happen on its scheduled weekend in Indianapolis next year.
Indianapolis was set to host the event on Presidents’ Day weekend next year.
Two sources, including Phil Ray, general manager of the JW Marriott, confirmed to WISH-TV Sports Director Anthony Calhoun that the NBA canceled its hotel contracts for that weekend in Indianapolis.
The league typically purchases large blocks of hotel rooms for All-Star weekend.
This year’s NBA Playoffs began Monday afternoon after a four-month delay to the coronavirus pandemic. Next season will have a delayed start.
Statements
“Given the uncertainty surrounding the schedule for the 2020-21 NBA season, we and the Indiana Pacers informed our hotel partners in Indianapolis that NBA All-Star 2021 is unlikely to take place on Presidents’ Day weekend so they could make other arrangements. More information about next season’s schedule, including NBA All-Star, will be announced at a later date.“
Unnamed NBA spokesperson
“We have been working with the NBA since 2017 to bring our fans and our city this world-class event, just as we did when we last hosted in 1985. While it appears All Star 2021 is unlikely to happen on Presidents’ Day weekend, we are excited about continuing to collaborate with the NBA as we look to the future.”
Rick Fuson, president and chief operating officer for Pacers Sports and Entertainment