The Bahamas will take over the American Airlines Arena (AAA) when the Miami Heat take on Bahamian Chavano "Buddy" Hield and the New Orleans Pelicans on March 15 next year, and Bahamian basketball fans are invited to take a front row seat.
In the run-up to the anticipated match-up, the Heat is reducing ticket fees for Bahamians, specifically, for that game. As an added bonus, the Ministry of Tourism will also hold its signature 'Bahamas Night' at the American Airlines Arena. The discounted tickets are a result of the Heat's partnership with the tourism ministry.
Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe said it will be an experience that Bahamians won't want to miss.
"It will be a complete takeover," Minister Wilchcombe said. "We'll have digital ads and videos from the Miami Heat training camp running. We will have an element of Bahamian entertainment as well. The Miami Heat will be playing the New Orleans Pelicans, and you know the Bahamian people are so proud of Buddy Hield. It will be an exciting match-up."
Hield, the sixth overall pick in June's National Basketball Association (NBA) Draft, joined the New Orleans Pelicans this summer. This will be the Ministry of Tourism's third year hosting a Bahamas Night at the AAA.
During the last "takeover", Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival dancers joined the Heat dancers on center court during their half-time performance. It is anticipated that they will do the same this year. Additionally, organizers are considering a Junkanoo performance. Director of Sports Tourism in the Ministry of Tourism Greg Rolle said the tourism team will put on a bigger show this year.
"We are going to start moving, because we want to showcase the culture more distinctly. We are definitely bringing our culture. It is a great co-branding opportunity for The Bahamas. We expect to see a lot of Bahamians."
Tickets for the game can be purchased online here. Bahamians are asked to use the password 'HEATBAHAMAS' to gain access to the discounted tickets. Bahamians can also access the link on TourismToday.com.
The link went live on Monday. Tickets are available in 100 level (closest to the court) and 300 level as well. Miami Heat officials said more seats will become available soon.
Tickets will range from $50 to $330. All Ticketmaster fees have been waived, which will save Bahamian fans an additional $15 to $20 per ticket.
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