INDIANAPOLIS – In a high energy kick off to the NBA All-Star 2024 weekend, nearly 5,000 people packed inside Bicentennial Unity Plaza for the All-Star tip-off party, Thursday night.
“This has been insane,” said Ashley Nora. “To actually be celebrating as a fan with a free event to be able to see some of the biggest superstars in history, to be able to see all the NBA All-Star, Tyrese Haliburton pulling up with Larry Bird like to end it off with firecrackers and T-Pain, I went crazy!”
Indiana Fever Star Tamika Catchings and actor Mike Epps played host for the evening which was jam-packed with celebrities and NBA legends.
“I am absolutely blown away. Indianapolis, I am so excited for you guys,” said Kia Davis, who was visiting from Pittsburgh.
The biggest surprise of the night came when musical artist T-Pain took to the stage to get the party started.
“I have no words! No words!” said Davis.
People in attendance say this type of event will only set Indy up for bigger things in the future.
“Just the buzz and the attention that Indianapolis is getting as a result of this,’ said Indy resident, Richard Gilliam. “And it’s cool for the kids especially. Like I just saw Oscar Robertson walk in. how cool is that. I think it’s just an exciting time for the city!”
And they can’t wait to see what the rest of the weekend has in store.
“If this is just tip-off, I can’t even imagine what else is to come,” said Nora. “I’m super excited! For everybody who isn’t here, and they see this, come! You’re missing out on something incredible. This is history in the making right now.”
This is just the beginning of the festivities for All-Star weekend.
For a full list, click here.
