Professional basketball, my friend, isn’t just a spectator sport; it’s a full-blown experience and entertainment that starts long before you take your seat in the arena. Whether you’re a seasoned fanboy or fangirl or a rookie hitting the court for the first time,  WNBA and NBA games are more than just fast-paced action, breakdown moves, and three-pointers. It’s a vibe. So, lace up your kicks (you won’t need them), because we’re about to hit the court running with these 8 tips to best enjoy watching an NBA or WNBA game.

Buy Your Tickets Early

If you’re rock solid on planning to go to a specific game, waiting until the last minute to get tickets can be a rookie mistake. Don’t be that person trying to score seats at the eleventh hour. Snagging tickets early can not only get you better seats but also save you a pretty penny. Prices tend to shoot up faster than Steph Curry at the three-point line as the game day draws nearer. For those looking for a deal, check out ticket marketplaces. For example, if you’re planning to go see Brooklyn Nets, find tickets for Barclays Center here via HelloTickets. It’s a great platform for making sure you get the best seats and do it on time.

Arrive Early: Be The Early Bird that Gets the Worm

Getting to the game early isn’t just about finding parking or skipping the crowds—though trust me, both are huge perks. Arriving at least an hour before tip-off lets you soak in the full experience. You’ll get a sneak peek at the players warming up, maybe even catch a glimpse of your favorite stars shooting around, all while the arena buzzes with pre-game energy. And hey, you never know, you might just get lucky and snag an autograph or two if you play your cards right. Plus, many NBA arenas offer early-bird concessions or fan experiences. So grab that extra-large popcorn or a souvenir before the rush, and sit back to watch the court come to life.

Dress for Success But Make It Comfy

This isn’t a black-tie affair, but let’s be real—NBA games are a social event as much as they are a sporting event. You want to represent your team, right? Throw on your favorite player’s jersey, rock the team colors, and blend in with the sea of fans who share your passion. That being said, comfort is key. There’s no shame in wearing those comfy kicks or breaking out that soft hoodie because you’ll be doing plenty of sitting, standing, cheering, and, let’s face it, some serious snacking. Wear something that lets you jump up with excitement when the buzzer-beater goes in without feeling like you’re stuffed into a sausage casing.

Food is Part of the Fun

Speaking of snacking—no sports game is complete without some top-notch arena grub or eating terrible $12 hot dogs. From loaded nachos to giant pretzels, the food scene at most basketball arenas have stepped up its game in the last decade. Some stadiums even have local restaurants dishing out specialties, so don’t be shy about exploring your options. Just be ready: it’s airport pricing so be ready to shell out $25 minimum per person if you want a meal and a beverage each.

It’s More Than Just Basketball

Sure, you’re there to watch basketball, but the in-game entertainment is the cherry on top. NBA teams go all out with fan interactions, kiss cams, half-time shows, and even dance-offs. These breaks are pure fun and can be just as entertaining as the game itself. So, get involved! Cheer when the hype team pumps up the crowd, sing along to the music, and don’t miss the mascot antics. There’s always some fan interaction waiting around the corner—whether it’s catching a t-shirt launched from a cannon or screaming for a free slice of pizza during a timeout.

Know the Lay of the Land

If you’re a casual fan or bringing someone new to the game, a little brush-up on the rules won’t hurt, especially if it’s the playoffs. There’s nothing worse than spending half the game explaining why the shot clock is ticking down or what a fast break is. Knowing the basics will keep you (and your friends) in the loop and focused on the action, rather than scratching your head every time the ref blows the whistle. Not sure where to start? No worries, most arenas have a program or app that gives a quick rundown of the rules, player stats, and other important tidbits, so you won’t feel like a fish out of water.

The Fun Doesn’t Have to Stop at the Final Buzzer

When the final buzzer sounds, don’t just bolt for the exits. Stick around for a few minutes and soak up the atmosphere—win or lose, the vibe is electric. If your team wins, celebrate with the crowd. If not, there’s usually still some post-game entertainment or even a chance to meet players if you’re lucky. And don’t forget to grab a little something from the team store as a memento. A cap, a mini basketball, or even a foam finger is a perfect way to remember your experience.

Make It an Experience to Remember

Going to an NBA game isn’t just about the sport; it’s about the memories you make along the way. Whether it’s grabbing snacks with friends, high-fiving strangers after a game-winning shot, or laughing at the mascot’s shenanigans, these moments stick with you. So, go ahead and dive in headfirst. After all, the ball’s in your court—how you choose to enjoy it is up to you!