Indianapolis to host 2021 NBA All-Star game

The National Basketball Association on Thursday announced that Indianapolis has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2021.

The 70th NBA All-Star Game will take place at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, home of the Indiana Pacers, on February 14, 2021. This will mark the second NBA All-Star in Indianapolis, which hosted the midseason classic in 1985.

Reflecting on the same, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said, "Indianapolis has an enduring love for basketball that creates a special connection to our All-Star Game," said Silver.

Indianapolis will follow Los Angeles in 2018, Charlotte in 2019 and Chicago in 2020 as All-Star host. The NBA All-Star Game will be played at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for the first time.

"We are thrilled with the NBA's decision to bring its showcase event, the NBA All-Star Game, to Indianapolis in 2021," said Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb. "No state nurtures and loves the game of basketball more than Indiana, and I am certain that my fellow Hoosiers will embrace the game and related events with uncommon passion and support."

Meanwhile, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said, "We're so excited to welcome the world back to our city and Bankers Life Fieldhouse for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game."

"Indianapolis' legacy is one that has truly been enriched by our chase of the next big game, and that story continues thanks to what we hope will be the best NBA All-Star Game and weekend yet."

NBA All-Star 2021 on-court events at Bankers Life Fieldhouse will include top rookies and second-year players in the Rising Stars on Friday, Feb. 12, followed the next day by the Taco Bell Skills Challenge, the JBL Three-Point Contest and the Verizon Slam Dunk during State Farm All-Star Saturday Night.

Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indiana Convention Center will be among the other venues throughout Indianapolis that will host events, including the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game and NBA All-Star and Rising Stars practices. Several events will feature interactive programming that brings fans of all ages closer to NBA and WNBA players and legends.