When we were there on April 6, it was known as Charlotte Bobcats Arena. By April 8, it would be known as Time Warner Cable Arena. This is a shame because it's another corporate name, but even more so because Time Warner Cable provides some of the worst service I've ever dealt with.
Fans can peer into the practice court from outside the arena.
Unfortunately the Bobcats asked Ron Laurita to show us around. Of all my visits, he was THE MOST comfortable person to speak with. He was clearly annoyed that we were there and had no interest in answering any of our questions. We followed him around for a bit, but he wasn't pointing out any sights or making the slightest effort to converse with us. Eventually, we couldn't keep up with his speed-walking and were questioning ourselves as to why we were even near this guy.
Some views of the court.
Mr. Thompson gave us two passes to "Back Court," which is a club that select ticket holders can access before, during, and after the game. At halftime, we were able to enter and get free soft drinks as well as other appetizers. It was a bit annoying though because there was also a band inside that made it so obnoxiously loud that you couldn't hold a discussion with the person next to you.
Some shots from around the arena.
What surprised me most was that for such a new arena - it still had the "cement palace" feel and lots of empty spots. While the Bobcats don't have a lot of history, you would think they would find something to fill all of this empty space, whether it be a revenue-creator, art, or something relating to the franchise.
"Frequent Fryers," "Pie in the Sky" just to name a few.
There is lots of interesting artwork throughout the arena. Throughout there are all sorts of references to Charlotte's heritage, including the ticket office and the concessions.
The franchise definitely sells the Jordan name. Many references to Jordan throughout the arena, including his shoes. The team apparel is the only apparel in the league with the Jordan logo.
I guess they have to remind you where you're drinking the Bud Light, which was enjoyable with my panini.
Prior to the game, we saw some interesting personalities...
Ray Allen working out with his midget friend. Allen wouldn't play in the game that night.
It even looks like the Celtics have a certified leprechaun on their payroll...
If it wasn't embarrassing enough to have the nickname of "Big Baby," he also had to sport this ridiculous haircut.
Adam Morrison and Sean May working their way back from injuries. Looks like Morrison still won't part with that moustauche.
I'm guessing that this was Brian Scalabrine's son?
Some views of the scoreboard. Clearly my favorite to date and is officially the largest video screen in the NBA.
Mascot Rufus
Tip-off
I really lucked out seeing the "after" effects of many of the key NBA transactions in the second half of the season.
Just when you couldn't take any more of the Rihanna "Umbrella" song, the dance team
has a whole performance based on the song.
The halftime act was Dan Menendez, the Piano Juggler. One of my favorite acts to date.
