We all know how NBA ticket prices could skyrocket, so is there any strategy for getting the best deals? In today’s digital age, saving money on such things is much easier than you think.
How much is a ticket to an NBA game? Well, it depends on multiple factors. First, the popularity of the event can raise the prices of the tickets. If we are talking about the finals, obviously, prices will be higher.
Next, we have the location of your seat in the stadium, and VIP seats can go as high as $60,000!
Regular season tickets are less expensive than NBA finals tickets. Warriors’ tickets are, without a doubt, the most costly, reaching an average price of $611, and second place is reserved for the Lakers, reaching an average price of $518.
But with a bit of online research and strategic play, you’ll be able to save a lot of money on these tickets.
Even small savings of 10% can save you up to $60 more, which you can use to buy drinks or food at the game.
There are a few things you need to consider when thinking about saving money on NBA tickets, such as:
Timing is Everything
Early Birds and Last-Minute Deals
Early Bird Gets the Worm, right? Well, the same goes for NBA tickets. The closer you get to the event, the more expensive the tickets get. This is not just in the NBA; it is a general rule of every single entertainment event.
So, my suggestion is to go early! A lot early! Of course, this brings many other problems, like whether you’ll feel like going to an NBA match in a couple of months, but if you are a die-hard fan of the sport, it wouldn’t be a problem for you.
Teams often release tickets months before the season starts, and the prices are much more affordable than on game day. Tickets can be down 30-40% from the game-day price if you buy them months in advance.
Of course, there are also last-minute deals, but these are hit or miss. Why? If there is a huge interest and all the tickets are sold out, there are no last-minute deals!
But if there are few seats free, organizers often offer huge discounts on these last-minute deals.
This is a great way to save some money, but you also risk missing the event.
It all depends on how badly you want to see the event. If I was a hard-core basketball fan, I’d go for an early-bird ticket and spend the rest of the time on basketball betting online and preparing for the event.
Pro Tip: Watch Ticketmaster and other official ticketing sites when the schedule is announced, typically in the summer. Early bird specials often surface during this period.
Choosing the Right Games
Weekday vs. Weekend Games
Weekday games are generally cheaper than weekend ones. Why? Simply because fewer people are able to attend due to work or school commitments. If you can swing a Tuesday night game, you’ll likely pay less than you would for a Friday night matchup.
High-Profile Matchups
Games against top-tier teams or those featuring star players like LeBron James or Stephen Curry usually come with a premium price tag. If you’re more interested in the experience than the opponent, choose games against lower-tier teams. For instance, watching the Detroit Pistons might be more affordable than seeing the Golden State Warriors, where ticket prices can soar to $589 on average.
Where to Purchase
Official Sources vs. Resellers
Buying directly from official sources like Ticketmaster or the NBA’s official site can provide peace of mind, but sometimes the best deals come from resellers.
Sites like SeatGeek, Vivid Seats, and StubHub often have competitive prices, especially as the game date approaches. Just be wary of hidden fees and make sure the seller is reputable.
Season Ticket Holders and Secondary Markets
Season ticket holders often sell tickets to games they can’t attend, sometimes at a discount. Platforms like Reddit and team-specific forums can be great places to find these deals.
Additionally, keep an eye on secondary markets where prices fluctuate dramatically based on demand.
Making the Most of Discounts and Promotions
Team Promotions and Special Offers
Many NBA teams offer promotions throughout the season. These can include discounts for students, military personnel, or group sales. Signing up for team newsletters can keep you informed about upcoming promotions.
Credit Card Perks and Rewards
Certain credit cards offer perks like early access to tickets or special discounts. Check if your credit card company has any partnerships with NBA teams or ticket vendors.
Utilizing Technology
Price Comparison Tools
Apps and websites like SeatGeek, TicketIQ, and TickPick aggregate prices from various sellers, allowing you to compare and choose the best deal. They often include historical price data to help you determine whether you’re getting a fair price.
Alerts and Notifications
Set up price alerts on these platforms to get notified when ticket prices drop. This can save you time and ensure you don’t miss out on the best deals.
