INDIANAPOLIS -- More than 30,000 fans packed into Gainbridge Fieldhouse between two sold-out watch parties for the first two games of the NBA Finals.
The price to get in and watch the Pacers play in their first finals in 25 years on the Gainbridge jumbotron was just $5. A small price for these fans, but something that adds up quickly for the Pacers Foundation.
The Pacers Foundation has worked throughout Indiana for 30 years to benefit organizations helping the youth to address equity and justice in education, health and safety.
”It could be anyone from Coburn Place, to Boys and Girls Club, to Girl Talk," said Corey Wilson, the Executive Director of the Pacers Foundation. "So, we try and find those smaller, lesser-known organizations that are doing the mission, doing the good work that we believe is important."
The Pacers Foundation also works to help food insecurity through Pacers Head Coach Rick Carlisle's Drive and Dish. The program gets nourishing food to families in need with dignity.
What the Pacers Foundation might be most known for is refurbishing outdoor basketball courts across Indiana. Most recently, courts at Frederick Douglass Park and Fall Creek and 30th Park have gotten major makeovers.
On Tuesday, a few people were at both parks shooting hoops. Demarcus Woodson said he's definitely seen more people playing since the court off Fall Creek Parkway was refurbished.
”It's really convenient," Woodson said. "Something that's nice, also it helps the courts aren't double rimmed."
Woodson said you'll find every court full on nice weekends in the Summer, especially with the changes the Pacers Foundation has brought on.
”I guess it's an all-around good feeling to know there is an organization out there that cares about the community and does something for them to enjoy together," Woodson said.
Wilson said they're planning to use the extra money generated from the watch parties to spread to multiple organizations.
”Just being able to give those youth-serving organizations that plus up, to give them those dollars to continue on their missions," Wilson said.
The Pacers may have more NBA Finals watch parties coming up that benefit the Pacers Foundation. We will keep you updated on those details.