Emirates NBA Cup Championship Game to Make Historic Move to Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis
The NBA is set to host the NBA Cup championship game at Butler's historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis for the upcoming season. Hinkle Fieldhouse, known for its rich history and iconic status, perfectly aligns with the league's vision of showcasing the final game in storied college arenas. The 2026-27 title game, scheduled for December 11, will be a significant departure from the previous finals held in Las Vegas, marking a new chapter for the Cup final.
NBA Head of Global Events Kelly Flatow expressed excitement about the prospect of hosting the championship game at Hinkle Fieldhouse, emphasizing the arena's unique atmosphere and its ability to enhance the Emirates NBA Cup Championship experience. With a seating capacity of approximately 9,100, Hinkle Fieldhouse has a distinguished legacy, having welcomed several U.S. presidents and hosted various events ranging from basketball games to circuses and ice shows.
Former Butler coach and current Boston Celtics basketball operations president Brad Stevens praised the fervent crowd at Hinkle Fieldhouse, highlighting the electric atmosphere that resonates within the historic venue. The arena's significance extends beyond basketball, as it served as the backdrop for the iconic 1954 Indiana high school basketball tournament, immortalized in the film "Hoosiers." Notable basketball figures like Oscar Robertson also left their mark on Hinkle Fieldhouse, adding to its illustrious basketball heritage.
Hinkle Fieldhouse's legacy as a basketball mecca is further underscored by its role in hosting NBA and WNBA games, solidifying its status as a premier basketball venue. The upcoming NBA Cup championship game at Hinkle Fieldhouse promises to be a memorable event, celebrating the intersection of basketball history and contemporary competition in a setting steeped in tradition and excellence.