Research Schedules and Arrive Early
One of the best ways to increase your chances of meeting NBA players before a game is to research the team’s schedule and arrive early at the arena.
Most teams have a shootaround 90-120 minutes before tipoff, so aim to arrive around this time. Position yourself near the players’ entrance to catch them as they arrive, and you may have opportunities for autographs, handshakes, or brief interactions.
Best Locations for Player Access
Some key locations to target include:
- Team bus drop-off area
- Player parking garage entrance
- Player tunnel entrance leading from locker rooms to court
- Near team bench during warmups
Arriving 1-2 hours before the game starts will give you more access as players get treatment, deal with media obligations, and begin pre-game routines.
Come Prepared
To maximize potential interactions, come prepared with:
- A basketball or item to be signed
- A Sharpie
- Your phone or camera for photos
- A sign or jersey to attract attention
Be patient and don’t be afraid to call out to a player politely. Your window will likely be small, so be ready to act fast!
Leverage Social Media
Social media provides invaluable access to NBA players’ schedules and public interactions. Follow players and teams on X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat to stay updated on events, appearances, and daily routines.
Engage Frequently and Respectfully
Ways to leverage social media include:
- Commenting on players’ posts
- Responding to their Instagram and Twitter Stories
- Reacting to their live video streams
- Tweeting updates and words of support
Consistent, thoughtful engagement can grab attention while understanding boundaries and privacy is paramount.
Watch for Contest Opportunities
Players and teams will often run social media contests like:
- Retweet to win signed merchandise or tickets
- Comment for a chance at exclusive sideline access
- Submit fan art to be featured on the jumbotron
Entering contests like these provides chances at rare access, special events, and coveted face time with your basketball heroes!
Attend NBA Events and Games
Attending as many NBA events as possible increases your odds of meeting players in person. This includes games, open practices, charity functions, community events, autograph signings, and more.
Arrive Early, Stay Late
Follow arrival tips to catch players on their way in, and stick around when the final buzzer sounds to catch them on the way out. This post-game window when security is still limiting arena access can provide prime autograph opportunities.
Know the Promotional Schedule
Many teams will provide special events like:
- Pregame autograph sessions for season ticket holders
- VIP meet-and-greets through contests and giveaways
- Special kids activities like high-fives from players during warmups
Checking a team’s schedule of these promos will give you an edge to utilize opportunities.
Attending Away Games
Away games often provide better access to road arenas and hotels. Stake out the visiting team bus at the hotel, linger near the locker room or sit courtside if tickets allow.
Sources:
nbaqueries.acadlog.com/how-to-meet-nba-players-before-a-game/
www.sportinglad.com/basketball/nba/how-to-meet-nba-players/
