Watching your first NBA game in person: tickets, arena tips and what to expect

Choosing a game

• Regular season runs from autumn to spring, with most teams playing several home games a month. Midweek games are often easier to get into than weekend ones.
• Big opponents and star players push demand up. If you mainly want the atmosphere, a less famous opponent is a fine choice.
• Playoff games in spring are louder and far more in demand.
• Check the official team schedule rather than relying on a third-party list, because tip-off times can move for television.

Buying tickets

• Start with the team's official site or the official ticketing partner it names. Teams sell through primary platforms and many also run an official resale market.
• Resale sites are common in North America. Prices vary hugely by game, seat and how close it is to tip-off, so compare carefully and include fees, which are often added late in checkout.
• Avoid buying from strangers on social media or outside the arena. Most tickets are now mobile only, and screenshots can be fake.
• Mobile tickets usually need the team or ticketing app. Download it and sign in before you travel, and add tickets to your phone wallet if offered.

Where to sit

• Lower bowl seats near the court are expensive but put you close to the players.
• Upper level seats are cheaper and give a better view of the whole floor, which helps you follow plays and spacing.
• Behind the baskets you see the players' height up close but judge distance less well.
• Sides near half-way give the classic television angle.

Before you go

• Bag policy: most arenas restrict bag size, and some allow only small clutch bags or clear bags. Check your venue's rules; storage nearby can be limited.
• Cashless venues: many arenas accept only cards and phone payments.
• Identification: bring photo ID if you want to buy alcohol. Visitors may need a passport.
• Transport: check public transport and parking options in advance. Leaving straight after a close game can mean long queues.

Arriving and getting in

1. Arrive 45 to 60 minutes before tip-off. Doors usually open well before, and security queues build.
2. Watch the warm-ups. Players shoot around before the game, and this is often the best chance to see them up close.
3. Stand for the national anthem or anthems. Remove hats if you can; it is customary.
4. Find your seat before the starting line-ups are introduced, when the lights drop and the arena gets loud.

What to expect during the game

• Breaks are frequent, for timeouts, reviews and television breaks. Arenas fill them with music, dance teams, giveaways and big-screen games.
• Crowd noise rises on defence, especially late in a close game. Join in if you like; chants are simple.
• Free throws: home fans stay quiet when their team shoots and sometimes wave or shout when the visitors do.
• Food and drink are expensive in most arenas. Some allow sealed water bottles, but check first.
• Games last around two and a half hours, longer if there is overtime.

Etiquette

• Return to your seat during stoppages rather than while play is live, so you do not block others' views.
• Keep comments about players reasonable. Arenas have codes of conduct and can remove fans.
• Watch out for balls going into the stands near the court.

After the game