Garden Party: Renovated MSG May Host 2012 NBA All-Star Game

Renovated Madison Square Garden Could Host NBA All-Star Game In 2012

With a $500M renovation planned for MSG, the Knicks are "preparing an application to host the [NBA] All-Star Game at the earliest possible date," according to Howard Beck of the N.Y. TIMES. The renovations are "scheduled to be ready for basketball" by the 2011-2012 season. NBA Commissioner David Stern yesterday said of the Knicks hosting the 2012 All-Star Game, "I would say it's a very live possibility." MSG Vice Chair Hank Ratner about two months ago "presented the renovation plans to Stern" and NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver (N.Y. TIMES, 7/24).

MAGIC KINGDOM: In Orlando, David Damron reported the Magic also have bid to host the 2012 game in their new arena, set to open in 2010. The Magic's bid "calls for holding the Jam Session outdoors under circus-style tents and in hangars at Orlando Executive Airport." Magic COO Alex Martins said that NBA officials were "open to an 'indoor/outdoor' concept for the Jam Session" (ORLANDO SENTINEL, 7/23).