The 2019 NBA All-Star Game has made its way back to Charlotte for the first time since 1991. In addition to the league, a number of its sponsors and other brands have taken over the city for a weekend of events. Along with on-the-court activities, the Qcitymetro team is bringing you some of the major arts, business and community events taking place throughout the weekend.
Thursday, Feb. 14 — Day 1
NBA All-Star FIT Celebration
The NBA and healthcare partner Kaiser Permanente came together to dedicate a newly refurbished court, locker room and yoga and meditation space at West Charlotte High School, before leading students in oncourt clinics, cooking and meditation activities. Former Charlotte Hornet Glen Rice and Khris Middleton, the 2019 Milwaukee Bucks All-Star and Charleston, S.C. native, were some of the players and ambassadors in attendance.
Spectrum Center Media Day
The NBA gave media a first view of the Spectrum Center’s transformation, including a look inside the locker room. NBA Senior Vice President for Event Management and Production Kevin Dobstaff shared insight about what to expect for the weekend.
Owners HQ – Nike and Jordan Brand
Before it opened to the public, we were one of the first to enter the Nike and Jordan Brand’s Owners HQ pop-up activation at the Mint Museum. On display, shoes worn by NBA legend and Hornet’s owner Michael Jordan, along with Kemba Walker, Kevin Durant and others.
Dave Chapelle
QCityMetro contributor Tompson Lubin was one of the lucky people to score tickets for one of comedian Dave Chapelle’s two sold-out shows at the Belk Theater. There were no cameras or smart phones allowed, but he showed us the massive crowds and shared his thoughts on the performance.
The Vault
At the McColl Center for Art + Innovation, QCityMetro contributor Marvin Price attended eBay’s The Vault pop-up event. The online retailer gave Charlotte a sneak peek at its first-ever “All-Star Weekend Drop” – a collection of rare and trending kicks, iconic basketball memorabilia and sought-after streetwear. Houston Rockets forward, and Raleigh native, P.J. Tucker made an appearance.
Jack Daniel’s House No. 7
Jack Daniel’s put on a unique party called Jack’s House. The event included a wide selection of drinks, games, slam dunk exhibitions, interactive characters and a performance by Big Boi from OutKast along with Sleepy Brown.
Follow our Instagram Stories for more scenes from the weekend’s events.
Kallan Louis is a writer and consultant for qcitymetro.com. He does a lot, but never feels like he’s doing enough. His life can be described as a Venn Diagram: News media, Black culture and sports. He’s always on TV, but rarely seen.
