USA Today Ranks HEAT No.1 Team in NBA

MIAMI, Apr. 14 – In an article appearing in the April 13th edition, USA Today named the Miami HEAT the NBA’s top team for in-arena entertainment. The HEAT, who led all teams with a 4.2 score (on a scale of 6), beat out the Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and the Chicago Bulls for the top spot. The HEAT Dancers were highlighted in the article as “cutting edge”, “well-drilled and hip”, as well as being noted as “the best kept secret in the league.” The “Red Carpet” player introduction was also heralded for embodying the culture of Miami.

“The Miami HEAT and AmericanAirlines Arena are happy to have been recognized by USA Today,” said Michael A. McCullough, HEAT Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “We strive to provide our fans with a memorable entertainment experience during each HEAT game and arena event.”

USA Today ranked each franchise in five categories, with 40 percent weight given to the seat and 15 percent each to parking, entertainment, fan involvement and concessions. Criteria in each category were rated on a scale of six to one – six being the highest and one the lowest. Overall, the HEAT ranked fifth in the Eastern Conference and ninth overall in the NBA in the total fan experience, according to USA Today.