Anticipation around the NBA Paris Games reaches new heights as the Indiana Pacers aim to create a festive atmosphere alongside the San Antonio Spurs, known for their rising star, Victor Wembanyama. As both teams prepare for their games at Accor Arena next week, the Pacers have announced a series of exciting events designed to engage fans and foster support during this truly global event.
With spectators from more than 50 countries expected in the arena for Thursday and Saturday’s games, the Pacers launched an innovative campaign including a city-wide scavenger hunt called “Quest for Gold.” Additionally, fans can expect a “Gold Out” LED activation at NBA House, viewing parties hosted at numerous Indiana Pop-up Cafés, and in-arena Party Starters handing out merchandise from the Pacers. Corporate partners also participated by sporting the team’s iconic gold colors across the city.
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“The NBA Paris Games are a unique event in the NBA calendar, showcasing the international appeal of the league,” said Joey Graziano, Pacers executive vice president of strategy and new business. “This event represents the European All-Star Game, and it is a unique opportunity to connect with fans who may not yet have a strong allegiance. Our mission is to woo them and convert them into Pacers supporters.”
Fans in Paris can now register via the new website, pacersinparis.com, to gain early access to the “Quest for Gold”. Starting Tuesday, daily clues and code words will be shared with registered participants, guiding them to special locations connected to the Pacers’ partners. The first fan to decipher the puzzles and arrive at the designated location will win an exciting prize package including an autographed Pacers jersey, two tickets to Saturday’s game, and exclusive “Gold Out” merchandise.
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The primary goal of these activations — and the Party Starters’ efforts — is to ensure a dynamic presence for the Pacers in an arena that risks being perceived as a Spurs stronghold due to Wemby’s Parisian roots. Graziano acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying, “We know we are entering a situation where the Spurs are favorites, and the expectation is that the public will overwhelmingly support their team. Our goal with this campaign is to spread awareness ‘Gold Out’ spirit as widely as possible, so that our players see a sea of gold in the stands during matches.”
Along with the scavenger hunt, the Pacers will host 16 viewing parties at Indiana Cafés across the Seine and back to Indianapolis. The team also plans to set up an LED basketball court replicating Gainbridge Fieldhouse, allowing fans to participate in shooting challenges to win prizes.
“The LED field will replicate the vibrant atmosphere of Gainbridge,” Graziano said. “The walls will be adorned with chants from a ‘Gold Out’ crowd, and participants will have the chance to score points in increasingly intense rounds that mimic the excitement of a high-stakes match.” The Pacers’ commitment to connectivity extends beyond the stadium, involving key partners such as Eli Lilly, Salesforce, Gainbridge, KeyBank, and others, all decked out in Pacers colors and ready to interact with fans.
In the words of owner Herb Simon, “We may not have invented basketball, but Indiana perfected it — and part of that perfection is embodied in our ‘Gold Out’ initiative.”
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