All-Star Weekend in Salt Lake City is bringing more than the game of basketball with it, many events are being hosted throughout the valley. (Photo credit: Waverly Golden)
SALT LAKE CITY — There’s more to the NBA All-Star Weekend than basketball! Along with hosting the game, Salt Lake City is offering many activities for visitors and locals alike.
This is the second time, since 1993, that Utah has opened its doors to the event.
And according to the Utah Jazz DJ, DJ Joune, this week and weekend are full of events you don’t want to miss.
One event DJ Joune said is notable is the first-ever NBA Foundation All-Star Pitch Competition. This event is taking place Thursday, Feb. 16, and is a partnership between the NBA and the Utah Black Chamber.
The competition allows Black entrepreneurs in the Salt Lake City community and across the country to gain funding for their ventures. Furthermore, influential business leaders in the NBA family will give entrepreneurs valuable input for their endeavors.
“This is a big event not only for the sports world but for the Utah community,” DJ Joune told KSL NewsRadio.
The Utah Transit Authority has your transportation needs covered throughout the week and into All-Star Weekend.
From February 12-21, UTA is offering ‘zero fare‘ days on FrontRunner, TRAX, and all bus services. UTA will also offer round-the-clock service during All-Star Week on the TRAX Green line between the Airport and 600 South Stations.
UTA will keep its website updated with information throughout the week and weekend.
Trolley Square is hosting the ‘Ice Buckets’ Challenge. Check out KSL Sports coverage of the event continuing throughout the week, here!
The Gateway is also getting into the NBA All-Star spirit with ‘Grit Rail Jam.’ The two-day event features some of the country’s best professional and amateur snowboarders.
On Friday, Feb. 17 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 18 from 3 p.m. to -6 p.m., boarders will take to the master handrails, walls, and ledges at Olympic Park at The Gateway.
“These opportunities don’t come around often, but Salt Lake City is a critical component in urban snowboarding’s culture and history in the sport,” said Jeremy Jones, professional snowboarder and businessman who was essential in bringing the competition to Utah for All-Star weekend.