Want a behind the scenes look at the arena where Miami Heat plays? Now’s your chance
Sure you’ve probably attended countless games and concerts at Kaseya Center. But have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes, where the magic happens?
The downtown, bayside arena, home to the Miami Heat, has gone through a few name changes since being built in 2000 (anyone remember the FTX crypto moniker for a hot minute?).
Back in April, Miami-Dade County commissioners approved the $117 million, 17-year deal with Kaseya, a software company headquartered in Brickell, so get used to it.
And now, for the first time, you can get a backstage pass of the center through Sept. 27, about a month before basketball season starts up again.
One-hour tours are held Thursday through Saturday, for groups of about 20.
“It’s a nice mix of kids and adults,” says Kaseya spokeswoman Salinah On Yeugo. “People get very excited and ask a lot of questions so sometimes it can go over an hour.”
The areas you’ll have access to include the media room, where coach Erik Spoelstra talks to press after games; “Championship Alley,” lined with framed newspaper articles and pictures from all three NBA titles from 2006, 2012 and 2013; and the amphitheater-shaped locker room.
On a recent tour, guide Julian Sanchez told participants that there is no need for a microphone when Spoelstra addresses his team.
“That’s intentional for two reasons. It’s so that every player can look at every other player in their eye,” Sanchez said, without raising his voice. “And also so that Coach can stand in the middle and everybody can hear him equally.”
More trivia: Kaseya is also home to an on-site barber shop, if the guys want a clean cut or shave before heading out on the court. We were told it’s the only arena in the U.S. that has such a perk, and that is so Miami.
Need to pick up a Dwyane Wade, Jimmy Butler or (fill in the name of your fave player) jersey? The tour ends at the Heat store and your ticket gets you 10 percent off of merch.
KASEYA ALL ACCESS TOURS
Where: 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami
When: Thursday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. through Sept. 27.
Tickets: Adults 18 and up $39.99, kids $24.99 at www.KaseyaCenter.com/AllAccessTours; 786-777-1237
FYI: Prohibited items include bags, purses, backpacks and briefcases.
This story was originally published August 5, 2024 at 1:06 PM.
