There's nothing like the atmosphere of an NBA Playoff game, but ticket prices can be astronomical for the biggest games of the season.
NBA franchises have done a fantastic job of supplementing that playoff atmosphere for fans when their team is on the road, or for those who can't get into the building for home games-- hosting watch parties outside of the arena keeps fans engaged each and every game.
In the past, we've seen the Toronto Raptors' "Jurassic Park" or the Milwaukee Bucks' "Deer District" get rowdy during playoff games and deep postseason runs.
The Golden State Warriors are the latest team to get involved with an outdoor watch party, creating "Thrive City" outside of their new arena – Chase Center – in San Francisco.
Don't be surprised if we start to see more franchises follow this lead – the Bucks are reportedly seeking $4 million annually for the naming rights to the "Deer District" plaza. With that much money potentially up for grabs, and the overwhelming positivity from fans surrounding these types of events, other NBA teams are sure to get involved sooner than later.
What is Thrive City? Here's everything you need to know below.
What is Thrive City?
Thrive City is the name of the plaza venue outside of the Warriors' new arena, Chase Center.
As described on Chase Center's official website, Thrive City is "a dynamic community gathering space created by the Golden State Warriors and Kaiser Permanente to promote health and wellness in the greater Bay Area. The beautiful open-air district offers a year-round resource for families, fans, visitors and neighbors to build community at a variety of festivals, farmers markets, dining experiences, community events and more."
Particularly during the Warriors' road playoff games, "the Watch Parties will provide fans the chance to enjoy lawn games, test their skills on the sport court, take advantage of photo opportunities and cheer on the Dubs with the game broadcast on the big screen! Plus, all Chase cardholders can show their Chase credit or debit card to access the Chase Lounge for a VIP experience and receive an exclusive giveaway (while supplies last)," per the Chase Center site.
Thrive City was ELECTRIC following the win 💥 pic.twitter.com/TBkMwwqJYB
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) May 1, 2022
When are Thrive City watch parties?
The Thrive City watch parties will occur during all of the Warriors' road playoff games.
You can find the full second-round series schedule with the Memphis Grizzlies below.
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | Location |
| May 1 | Game 1 | 3:30 p.m. | Memphis |
| May 3 | Game 2 | 9:30 p.m. | Memphis |
| May 7 | Game 3 | 8:30 p.m. | Golden State |
| May 9 | Game 4 | 10 p.m. | Golden State |
| May 11 | Game 5* | TBD | Memphis |
| May 13 | Game 6* | TBD | Golden State |
| May 16 | Game 7* | TBD | Memphis |
*Bold indicates Thrive City watch party event.
You can RSVP for the next Thrive City watch party on Tuesday, May 3rd here.
Will Thrive City watch parties occur if it's raining?
Per Chase Center's official website, Thrive City watch parties are rain or shine.
Here are some other notable rules below.
- This event is first-come, first-serve until capacity is reached.
- All pets must be on a leash at all times.
- Coolers with food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed.
