Basketball tickets - which is best site to purchase?

[Julia Ann]

thinking of going to see orlando magic vs chicago bulls on nov 1 - which is the best website to purchase the tickets, i have seen that some collect from your hotel.

 

[JohnnySharp2]

Have never bought NBA tickets from them but I know Attraction Tickets Direct sell them

http://www.attraction-tickets-direct.co.uk/orlando-magic-basketball/index.htm

 

[steve_rob]

Personally, I'd go through the Orlando Magic website (www.nba.com/magic) - that way you know you're getting tickets to the right game and aren't going to get overcharged.

I've just followed the links and it looks like the Magic sell their tickets through Ticketmaster. However, I note from this site that tickets don't go on sale to the general public until 6th October (it's season ticket holders only before this date). Also worth considering that the game on the 1st Nov vs Chicago is the season opener (all games before this are pre-season friendlies) so tickets for this will sell out incredibly quickly. You may have to consider the game against Philadelphia on the 3rd if this is the case.

Finally, when ordering tickets, I'd choose the "Will Call" option (it's what I've always used when buying tickets for baseball games in the US). You print off your receipt from the website, then turn up on the day about an hour before the game at a ticket window, show them your receipt and the credit card you used to pay for it and they give you your tickets there - no need to pay postage or a delivery fee.

 

[jna]

Just a thought, but before the start of the NFL season I attempted to use Ticketmaster to buy a Tampa Bay Buccaneers ticket and found that they only sell to those with a credit card registered with an address in Florida.

Now NFL tickets are very hard to come by at most franchises, and I suspect the restriction is there to reduce the opportunities for touts and eBay sellers. It may also be in force with the NBL in Orlando.

I eventually found a reasonably good seat on the fifty yard line through a broker and the ticket was posted to the UK.

 

[juliebro]

We went to a Magic game a couple of years ago. I booked the tickets via Ticketmaster and used my credit card with no problem at all. As suggested above, we used the 'will call' option and just picked them up from the ticket office before the game.

Julie

 

[Night-train]

Try www.tickco.com.

 

[bom_noite]

Try: http://www.empiretickets.com/

I have used them in the past (in Atlanta) with great success. In the end you pay a much higher price, but, you have a chance to get a seat in the first 20 rows. There are a few other on-line ticket brokers, but, since I have used Empire I will recommend them.

Almost all Sports Clubs in the states (and Concerts, Plays, etc.) use http://www.ticketmaster.com/. I have used them also. Unlike Empire you will get seats at "Face Value". They will show you the Best Seat Available (based on how much you want to spend). Unlike Empire I would strongly doubt you would ever get near the first 20 rows. Ticketmaster also slams you with a bunch of junk fee's that fringe on robbery. NOTE: Still, the ticket prices are lower then Empire.

My rule of thumb is this: If I am buying an event where I know a bunch of seats will be available I use Ticketmaster. If it is a tougher ticket and I want up close or know it is the only way to see the event I use Empire.

I do not know much about the Magic and how well they draw - but - you may want to consult both sites and make a decision.

Seat Reselling (or Scalping as we call it) is illegal in all US States other then Ohio. So, I have never understood how Empire does it - but - they must have found a loophole somewhere! And, they advertise on many radio stations - and since I (and many friends) have used them multiple times with absolutely zero problems I am willing to go out and say you will have no problems. By my definition they are Scalpers and illegal - but - they have been out there a long time and no one has stopped them. So, I can only think they have some agreement with the Franchise I am unaware of.

If you want to watch real Basketball I would suggest driving to Miami to see Shaq and the Heat - as the only real basketball you will see in Orlando will be from the visiting team! I would also tell you that better Basketball can be found at the University of Florida (in Gainesville about 2 hours north). While they start the season in November college teams usually play bums until Jan 1. Then, the conference season starts with conference play (and UF is in a Fantastic conference).

As for football, the TB Bucs have had a dismal season (0-3) and are going no where! Tickets for them should be plentiful at this point! The draw in Tampa is truly the Stadium - which is fantastic! The Miami Dolphins are also looking like imposters!

The Jacksonville Jaguars, on the other hand, are the best Pro Football team going in FLA. But, they have a loyal following and are sold out (you would have to get tickets on Empire).

Bang for the Buck I would suggest you think about a Hockey Game. Tampa has a fantastic team and is about 1.5 hours from WDW. And, believe it or not, Hockey may be the best "Fan Friendly" sport in the US. I took two Brits to a game last year (who had never seen hockey) and they went ahead and bought tickets for a game 3 nights later!

Lastly, University of Central Florida (UCF) plays in Orlando and is in a "semi" big time conference. They have a great football coach and probably put on a cheap and entertaining show!. In fact, it is probably the best thing going in Orlando! Most likely you can just walk up and buy those tickets. Cannot give any reccomendations on UCF Basketball!

Lastly, at many US Pro Event their are Scalpers. These guys will be holding a sign that says: "I need Tickets". In the end, they will be reselling tickets. Is it illegal? Yes! Do the police intercede - once in a Blue Moon. I have scalped many a ticket with no problem.

But, you need to be carefull with Scalpers! They will have you give them the Money and then give you a bogus ticket or will take your money, hide some of it quickly and then say "Hey, you only gave me half!". And, when this happens no Cop is going to come to your rescue!

A rule of thumb is to stay away if they are in a group (3 or more). You also should have a Seating Chart to see exactly where your seat will be! A better policy, unless you are experienced with these folks, is to just stay away.

I am a Yank, but, have worked in Leicester for most of the year. Thus, I peruse the UK board. I am also a Sports Nut (I even follow Cricket!) and can give you my opinions on prices, etc. If you need more assistance please do not hesitate to PM me.

That should tell you everything you need to Know about Florida Sporting events and how to obtain tickets!

Have fun!

 

[jna]

As for football, the TB Bucs have had a dismal season (0-3) and are going no where! Tickets for them should be plentiful at this point! The draw in Tampa is truly the Stadium - which is fantastic!

I have been looking forward to my visit to the RJS and was hoping for a good game against the Eagles. Seems to me it's going to be rather one sided so I think I'll wear a green shirt!

 

[Phil Harris]

I booked to see the Magic through ticketmaster. As I recall, you have to use the 'Will Call' option (so you need to take passport and c card to the game). You can't pre-book parking if you are from the UK but I don't think that the on the day price is any different ($8, I think).
Be sure to leave plently of time as you will probably be driving into downtown Orlando at rush hour - the TD Waterhouse Centre is pretty well signposted though.