Features

Wizards to debut courtside patio at Capital One Arena

Fans of the Washington Wizards NBA basketball team will be able to sample a courtside patio from next season after Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) announced details of a new space for VIP ticket holders.

‘The District’ will form part of MSE’s wide-ranging renovation of Capital One Arena, which the Wizards share with NHL ice hockey team the Washington Capitals.

The courtside patio will be the largest of its kind in the NBA and will feature a bar setup and an enhanced culinary experience, allowing fans to mingle with one another without missing any of the action. The space will also provide fans with direct access to the MGM National Harbor VIP Lounge and the Etihad Airways Lounge.

The District will be located in the east endzone of the arena, next to the Wizards bench. Four rows of VIP seating will complement the patio, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.

Jim Van Stone, president of business operations and chief commercial officer at MSE, which operates the arena and its two major-league tenants, said: “Washington, D.C. is one of the most connected cities in the world and the courtside patio at Capital One Arena will be an ideal location for business development and networking opportunities and perfect for fans who want to socialise at a unique space that serves as a literal extension of the hardwood and our terrific in-venue VIP experiences.”

The District marks the latest move to enhance the fan experience at Capital One Arena. Last month, MSE partnered with Alipay to provide fans with greater payment options at the arena, while earlier this year MSE owner Ted Leonsis revealed plans to house a first-of-its-kind sportsbook at the facility.

MSE announced details of the second phase of renovations for Capital One Arena back in February. The privately-funded $15m (£11.9m/€13.5m) project will complement last summer’s $40m renovation at the arena and is scheduled to be completed by the autumn.

A revolutionary new centre-hung scoreboard will be one of the main features of the renovation work, which will also incorporate new concession options, expansion of luxury seating, a refurbished destination lounge and the renovation of the 200 level concourse.

Image: Washington Wizards