Remember when? A look back at the NBA at Indian Wells Tennis Garden

A chilly October night for the NBA, usually that’s the announcer describing the weather outside the arena. On October 11th, 2008 though, it was here in the Coachella Valley for an historic night.

2008 was a year to appreciate— “Almost like a rock concert it was so fun so we decided to do it again.” Richard Hermann, co-owner of the Phoenix Suns said.

Then again in 2009 and 2011. Two more of the years of NBA at Indian Wells, and the fans sure loved it.

“Outside in the desert, 75-degrees with a cool breeze just watching an NBA game.” Jonathan Hirschbein said, who attended the first ever game.

“I thought it was a lot of fun for our locals.” Maher Qaqi, another game attendee added.

Even though the open skies of the valley desert may have been a bit chilly, so did the players.

“Great for the league, something new. Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets being part of something new for the first time. We are pioneers of this out door game now.” Amar’e Stoudemire said.

“We all grew up playing outside so to be back outdoors is obviously fun for us and an opportunity we don’t get very often.” Steve Nash said.

“I don’t know if the playgrounds I played in were this nice, but the whole idea and concept of playing outdoors, really since high school have I done that.” Grant Hill said.

So each of the years nearly 16 thousand fans packed into the stands, but on August 23rd of 2011 the Suns called it quits. Former Team President and CEO Rick Welts said that “This event along with another hosted by the Suns in Vancouver each preseason was a drain on the team’s staff, and that the club simply wanted to take a year off to evaluate the situation.”

Now nearly 6-years later, still no basketball in the garden.

“I think they would do even better than they did before because so many are focused on the NBA these days.” Gabriel Dreisbazh said.

“I wish it would come back, that was one of the my favorite sporting event’s I have ever went to.” Hirschbein added.

“I really hope to go again.” said Carson Tanner

I reached out to Indian Wells and they said they have no comment at this time about any future plans of the return of the hardwood, but hey that’s not a no, so let’s go.