The first time after 1988, the city of Chicago will host one NBA All-Star game. Chicago also hosted the All-Star game in 1973. The 69th annual game will take place at the United Center on Sunday, February 16, 2020. This was announced by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver on Friday, during a press conference at the home of the Chicago Bulls.
“Chicago is an iconic city with a storied basketball history. We are thrilled to bring the NBA All-Star Game back,” – said Silver. “We thank Mayor Emanuel, Jerry and Michael Reinsdorf and the entire Bulls organization and look forward to an exciting week of activities celebrating the game of basketball.“
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel expressed his enthusiasm following the announcement.
“Chicago is looking forward to hosting NBA All-Star 2020 and welcoming players and fans from across the country and around the world to our great city,” – said Emanuel. “Chicago is a global hub for sports, entertainment, and culture. Bringing the NBA All-Star Game back to the city for the first time in over three decades is a win for our city, our businesses, and fans of all ages who will have the chance to be part of one of the basketball’s biggest events.“
Before Chicago, Los Angeles in 2018 and Charlotte in 2019 will be All-Star game hosts.
The last time when Chicago was a host, the Bulls superstar Michael Jordan played an amazing game in front of his home crowd, being named MVP and leading Eastern Conference to 138-133 with 40 points. The day before, Jordan defeated Dominique Wilkins in a spectacular Slam Dunk Contest.
