Charlotte to host NBA All-Star Game in 2017

Basketball legend Michael Jordan, who owns the Charlotte Hornets

New York, June 24 (IANS) The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced that Charlotte has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2017.

Last time the Charlotte Hornets hosted an All-Star Game was in 1991 while this game is scheduled for February 19, 2017, reports Xinhua.

The Hornets are owned by Michael Jordan, the six-time NBA champion, who has sought to bring the game to Charlotte since he became the team's majority owner in 2010. Meanwhile, the city agreed to pay about $30 million for renovations to the arena when the Hornets submitted their All-Star bid.

"As a thriving city with a proud basketball tradition and a deep passion for the game, the city of Charlotte is a terrific All-Star destination. We thank Michael Jordan, the Hornets organisation and the Charlotte community for their support and congratulate them on bringing our All-Star festivities back to North Carolina," said NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Tuesday.

Jordan, a 14-time All-Star, last played in the All-Star Game in Charlotte 24 years ago.

"It is an honour to bring NBA All-Star back to Charlotte. I remember the excitement of playing in the 1991 All-Star Game, the first one held in my home state and I take pride in being able to host NBA All-Star 2017 as the owner of the Hornets," Jordan said.

"This is a great moment for our fans, our city, and our franchise. We are excited to welcome the world to Charlotte and Time Warner Cable Arena in 2017."