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Basketball in Indiana is just different. The state loves hoops more than any other sport out there and it isn’t shy about letting everyone know it. (Have you seen Hoosiers?!)
Fans on social media were reminded of the state’s feelings towards the sport by the Indiana Pacers who posted on X, “A full-length basketball court has been installed in the middle of Indianapolis International Airport to welcome fans to next month’s #NBAAllStar2024.
“In 49 states it’s just basketball, but this is Indiana.”
Sadly, according to WTHR News, airline passengers aren’t allowed to actually play on the court.
They can, however, check out some custom basketballs painted by local Indianapolis artists.
Indianapolis International Airport officials also said that as the NBA All-Star Game gets closer they will have live music from local musicians, custom artwork in the KIND Gallery, and pop-up stores where fans can buy NBA All-Star Game merchandise.
“We’re ready to deliver a world-class experience that continues to make us known as the best airport in North America year after year,” they said.
Flights will be getting missed due to having next
— B•E•A•N•S (@NicAT_Nite) January 14, 2024
But again, no, you can’t actually hoop on the court.
Should you be one of those folks who are flying into Indy for the game, try not to get lost. 34 temporary street signs, including one for each team in the NBA, were installed by Indianapolis Department of Public Works crews around the city. (The city did a similar thing back in May for the Indianapolis 500, only with drivers’ names.)
The NBA All-Star Game takes place on Feb. 18 inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse. It will be the first time that Indianapolis has hosted the game since 1985.
It’s unclear what will happen to the airport basketball court after the game, but the Indiana Fever of the WNBA might want to hang on to it for the next time Caitlin Clark is in town to help convince her that she should declare for the 2024 WNBA Draft.