Arco Arena, Unworthy of Royalty

Official Review by Rob Tocalino, Stadium Journey Correspondent

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This is not going to be pretty. By almost every measure Arco Arena is a soul-diminishing place. Not just a miserable basketball venue–now that they’re finally playing something that resembles basketball on the court–but not a particularly enjoyable place to be, regardless what’s on the floor. It’s so bad that the NCAA, which has hosted previous March Madness rounds in Arco, rejected a return through 2013. So bad that even Sacramento Mayor (and former NBA star) Kevin Johnson is on record as saying “I’m not surprised by the rejection. I knew this day would come. Any sports fan who has visted ARCO Arena lately should have seen it coming.”

This wasn’t always the case. Back in the day, when the Kings could make a legitimate claim as Western Conference royalty, Arco was absolutely jumping. It was loud, Guinness World Record loud at 130 decibels. But while the team was winning on the court, the stadium wasn’t getting any younger–and to be honest, it wasn’t any great shakes to start with. When the Kings relocated from Kansas City, they played in Arco Arena I, a small box located in the still fledgling Natomas neighborhood north of Sacramento. After three seasons, they relocated to Arco II, which was built on the cheap and remains the smallest and oldest stadium in the NBA.

Hope is on the horizon. Johnson has led an aggressive push for a new stadium, and as of this writing the favored bid includes a downtown facility. Fingers crossed.

Food & Beverage   3/5

The Maloof family, owners of the team and Arco Arena, also own the Palms Resort and Casino in Vegas, and it’s clear they understand the hospitality business. In addition to concession stands slinging the expected hot dogs, popcorn, burgers and such, there are stands dishing out fresh-carved sandwiches, sharwarma, made-to-order burritos, rice bowls, and sushi. Premium beers and top-shelf cocktails run around $9-$10.

Atmosphere   2/5

The Kings have a dance troupe. They’ve got a mascot, Slamson the lion. They’ve got a breakdance troupe. There’s a pre-game show and halftime entertainment and roving reporters in the crowd. All this to say: they’re trying. But even when you rouse a half-empty arena, it still feels half-empty.

Neighborhood   1/5

What neighborhood? Arco Arena is in a field. Even though houses, apartments, and a few restaurants have taken root around it, it still feels like it’s in the middle of a field. Former King Chris Webber was part-owner of a nearby restaurant and bar, Center Court with C-Webb. It’s closed, and he’s now being sued by the other investors.

Fans   4/5

People are still showing up to Kings games, which after the last few seasons is saying something. Passion for this team runs pretty high in Sacramento, albeit somewhat lower than in the aforementioned glory years. Rookie of the year candidate Tyreke Evans, fellow rookie Omri Casspri, and new addition Carl Landry have given die-hard fans something to cheer for night in and night out. See below on empty seats.

Access   3/5

Located at the intersection of two main freeways, it’s pretty easy getting to Arco via car. Parking is $10. There is regular bus service from downtown Sacramento as well. That said, going to the game is never going to be a casual decision. Unless you live in Natomas, it’s a trek.

Return on Investment   2/5

Ticket prices remain high, surprisingly so considering the indifferent attendance. At the few Kings games I’ve attended this year, the upper level is full of people taking advantage of recession-friendly promotions, while there are yawning sections on the season-ticket heavy lower floor.

Extras   1/5

This point represents the hope that the Kings, a once-exciting franchise that appears to be on an upswing, can get out of this abysmal arena and move into a new home. It would be a boon for Sacramento and the NBA, and, most importantly of all, for the fans.

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