NBA Con: A One-of-a-Kind Experience for Basketball Fans
LAS VEGAS — If you ever wanted to meet an NBA legend, a current star, or a future one, you have the opportunity. The first-ever NBA Con, a three-day event that ends Sunday at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, offers fans a unique cultural experience and is being held in conjunction with the NBA Summer League.
A Star-Studded Event
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Isiah Thomas, Trae Young, Tyrese Haliburton, Anthony Edwards, Scoot Henderson, Keegan Murray, and of course, Victor Wembanyama were just some of the past and present NBA players who made appearances Saturday. This star-studded lineup ensured that fans had the chance to rub shoulders with their basketball idols.
Beyond Basketball
But NBA Con isn’t just about basketball. If you’re into art, music, fashion, podcasts, interactive basketball drills, and on-court opportunities, this event has you covered. It offers a wide range of activities and experiences that cater to every fan’s interests. Additionally, for those looking to own a piece of NBA history, limited-edition apparel and collectibles are available for purchase. These collectibles even include sections of NBA courts, allowing fans to own a tangible piece of their favorite team’s history.
A Conversation with Legends
One of the highlights of NBA Con was a panel discussion moderated by Isiah Thomas, featuring NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and this year’s No. 1 overall pick, Victor Wembanyama. The panel discussed the state of the game and what the future holds for basketball. Abdul-Jabbar shared his thoughts on how the game has changed over the years, emphasizing the decrease in “brutality” on the court. He commended Wembanyama for playing in an era where player safety is prioritized.
Abdul-Jabbar also reflected on his own career, mentioning the restrictions he faced as a player. He revealed that he wanted to bring the ball up the court, similar to Wembanyama’s style, but was not allowed to do so. Despite these limitations, Abdul-Jabbar expressed gratitude for the players who paved the way for future generations. He mentioned legends like Oscar Robertson and Bill Russell, highlighting their impact on the game.
A Mentorship Moment
Throughout the panel discussion, Wembanyama listened intently to Abdul-Jabbar’s advice. Like a young protégé learning from a master, Wembanyama nodded his head in agreement, absorbing every word of wisdom. Abdul-Jabbar emphasized the importance of saving and investing money, urging Wembanyama to secure his financial future. The NBA legend assured Wembanyama that these lessons would prove valuable in the long run.
Wembanyama, despite being new to the league and having a lackluster offensive performance in his summer-league opener, remained focused and determined. He acknowledged his responsibility to young fans and expressed his desire to give back by winning championships. The crowd erupted in applause, showing their support for the young star.
A Positive Outlook
Both Abdul-Jabbar and Thomas praised Wembanyama’s performance in his opening game. Thomas repeatedly highlighted the difficulty of blocking five shots in a single game, pointing out Wembanyama’s achievement. Abdul-Jabbar echoed this sentiment, assuring Wembanyama that his teammates would value his defensive prowess. The panel discussion ended on a positive note, leaving fans inspired by the exchange between these basketball legends and the promising young player.
Don’t Miss Out!
If you’re interested in attending NBA Con, there’s still time! The event runs until Sunday, and tickets can be purchased at NBACon.com or NBAEvents.com. Admission starts at $30 for children and $60 for adults, with various MVP packages available. Additionally, if you’re already attending summer-league games, a complimentary shuttle service is provided between the Thomas & Mack Center and Mandalay Bay, making it convenient for fans to enjoy both events.
NBA Con has truly created a one-of-a-kind experience for basketball fans. From meeting NBA legends to exploring various aspects of the game, this event caters to every fan’s passion. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of basketball and create lasting memories.