The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
NBA Experience tips off at Disney Springs
ORLANDO, FLA. — Walt Disney World and the NBA have teamed up for an interactive basketballthemed attraction. The NBA Experience is now at Disney Springs.
The attraction, built in the West Side neighborhood of the shopping and entertainment complex, features about a dozen hoopsdriven activities that either simulate the big-league experience, improve skill sets or tweak normal basketball play. An area devoted to dunking allows the rim to be lowered 3 feet and the ensuing action to be photographed. Nearby, giant slingshots are aimed at multiple backboards, with 14 players competing at the same time.
The business stands amid stores and restaurants, including House of Blues across the walkway. It’s on the approximate footprint of the former DisneyQuest attraction.
“It is an experience, and that’s what we’re about,” said Matt Simon, vice president for Disney Springs. He said skill level did not dictate how much a visitor might enjoy the new offering.
“They will have that experience of what it’s like to feel like an NBA star,” Simon said.
Most of the activities are on the second floor of the attraction. The ground floor features exhibits about players, a chance to compare wingspans with a picture of 7-footer Mohamed Bamba of the Magic and a retail space. A sports bar/restaurant called City Works Eatery & Pour Hour is scheduled to open in the building later.
Victor Oladipo, formerly of the Magic and now with the Indiana Pacers, said the attraction creates another way to connect with NBA enthusiasts.
“Fans make our game,” he said. “All they want to do is to interact with us in any way possible.”
A ticket for a one-day visit to NBA Experience is $34 ($29 for ages 3 to 9). Generally, it will open around midday and be in operation into the late evening hours.