The Do's, don'ts and unspoken rules of sitting courtside at NBA games (2024)

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- People pay lavish amounts for the privilege to sit courtside at NBA games. But on rare occasions, they get a little too close to the action.

RELATED: Who is Golden State Warriors minority owner Mark Stevens, the man who shoved Kyle Lowry?

After the NBA banned Golden State Warriors investor Mark Stevens for shoving Raptors guard Kyle Lowry during Game 3 of the NBA Finals, let's review the do's, don'ts, and best practices of sitting courtside and the NBA official code of conduct.

The Do's, don'ts and unspoken rules of sitting courtside:

  • Don't verbally abuse players, coaches or refs. You could be ejected from the game.
  • Do get fired up. Trash talk is okay but don't be derogatory.
  • Don't go on the court. That could also get you ejected.
  • Do pay attention. You are right in the action and collisions do happen.
  • Don't fight or throw objects. That will also get you thrown out.
  • Do be mindful of your drink. If you spill, it could end up on the court.
  • Don't touch the ball. It could be fan interference and hurt your team.

Check out more stories about the Golden State Warriors and the NBA Finals.

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The Do's, don'ts and unspoken rules of sitting courtside at NBA games (2024)

FAQs

What are the rules for sitting courtside at an NBA game? ›

Guests will sit only in their ticketed seats and show their tickets when requested. Guests who engage in fighting, throwing objects or attempting to enter the court will be immediately ejected from the arena. Guests will smoke in designated smoking areas only.

What do you get when you sit courtside? ›

Think VIP treatment. "Most times courtside seating does come with food and alcohol," Goodman said. "Typically there's a VIP entrance to get into the building, so you don't have to wait in line and can come in with a complete VIP experience, whether it's a Crypto.com or Ball Arena.

What are NBA players not allowed to do? ›

An offensive player shall not leave the playing area of the court without returning immediately and cannot repeatedly leave and re-enter the court. EXCEPTION: (1) injury, (2) inbounding the ball on a throw-in and (3) any other unusual circ*mstance.

Where not to sit at a basketball game? ›

Many would suggest that the seats on the lower level behind the baskets are the worst because they make it more difficult to see what's happening at the opposite end of the court. Alternatively, others may suggest that the nosebleeds are the worst because of how far away from the action they are.

How much does it cost to sit courtside at an NBA game? ›

The average courtside ticket during the regular season generally costs around $1,500.00. However, ticket prices vary depending on seasonality (regular season vs playoffs), which teams are playing and the specific location. If you're looking for NBA courtside tickets, SeatGeek is your best option.

Can anyone sit courtside? ›

The number of courtside seats at a given arena is naturally pretty limited and many of the seats are taken by season ticket holders. If you are wondering how to get courtside NBA tickets, there are two approaches: primary and secondary.

Are courtside seats comfortable? ›

Courtside seats are essential to making sure that everyone can comfortably watch the game, no matter their age or ability to move around. These chairs offer a secure and comfortable sitting choice for fans of all ages due to their qualities like strong armrests and non-slip surfaces.

What's the best place to sit at a basketball game? ›

Courtside Action

It's so close to the game you can almost reach out and touch the players and such seats often come with special amenities, like exclusive food and beverage options and club access. However, keep in mind that the very best courtside view is always from the center court.

Do celebrities pay to sit courtside? ›

There are several ways in which A-listers can secure these seats without necessarily having to pay for them. For instance, some celebrities use their connections to get tickets from team owners, coaches, or players. Others may receive complimentary tickets from NBA teams or companies sponsoring the NBA.

Are drinks free courtside? ›

Yup if you're sitting anywhere courtside you will have access to the courtside club and be able to get anything you want complimentary.

Do NBA players get free courtside tickets? ›

Players are prohibited from selling the tickets, and if caught, they won't receive any more. The players are taxed on the ticket they receive as a fringe benefit. They also cannot give them to players on other teams, nor can teams provide free tickets to players on other teams.

Is 69 illegal in NBA? ›

No NBA player has ever worn the number 69, which is believed to be implicitly banned due to its sexual connotations; the NBA has never confirmed this. Dennis Rodman allegedly requested the number 69 when he joined the Dallas Mavericks but was refused and instead wore 70.

What is the 3 second rule in the NBA? ›

The three-second rule states that an offensive player cannot remain within the painted area (also known as the key, lane, or the paint) for more than three consecutive seconds while their team is in possession of the ball.

What number can you not wear in NBA? ›

While most numbers are fair game in choosing a jersey number, there are a few exceptions. The NBA prohibits players from wearing certain numbers for various reasons. For example: Numbers 69 and above: Players cannot wear numbers #69 and above due to potential concerns over inappropriate or offensive associations.

What is the NBA code of conduct seating? ›

Guests will sit only in their ticketed seats and show their tickets when requested. Guests will not engage in fighting, throwing objects or attempting to enter the court, and those who engage in any of these actions will immediately be ejected from the game. Guests will smoke in designated smoking areas only.

How much does it cost to go on the floor in the NBA? ›

Ultimate Benefits Include:
Seating LevelTotal Investment
VIP II$52,800 (SOLD OUT)
FLOOR A$52,200 (SOLD OUT)
FLOOR C$30,000 (SOLD OUT)
FLOOR D$25,500
2 more rows

What are the perks of NBA courtside? ›

See what our Courtside Seats have to offer.
  • EVENT TICKETS. Best seats in the house and priority presale for all Moda Center concerts and events!
  • PARKING PASSES. Complimentary Garden Garage parking pass for every two seats and access to reserved parking spaces.
  • SERVICE. ...
  • FOOD AND BEVERAGE. ...
  • EVENTS. ...
  • EXCLUSIVE ACCESS.

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