Want to watch a live NBA game in the US but unsure how to buy tickets, how to determine if it's a "Warriors home game," or if there are any special rules for entering the Chase Center (Warriors home court) in San Francisco? This article will summarize all the key points for you, from determining the home court, choosing a ticketing platform, and the ticketing process, to actual entry precautions and frequently asked questions, guiding you through the complete process of buying NBA tickets.
Whether it's your first time visiting San Francisco, your first time watching a game live, or you've come specifically for the Golden State Warriors, follow this guide to ensure you have a worry-free and enjoyable experience watching a game in San Francisco, at the Warriors' home arena.
First, confirm: Did you buy a ticket for the "Warriors' home game"?
NBA games are divided into home and away games. Home games are played in the team's own city and at a fixed arena; away games are played in the opposing team's city. Take the Golden State Warriors as an example:
- Warriors' home arena: Chase Center in San Francisco.
- Warriors away games: playing in other teams' cities
How can I quickly determine the ticketing platform?
- The game information will show the game location; Chase Center represents the Warriors' home arena.
- In the official schedule, if "Warriors" is listed first, it's usually a home game; otherwise, it's an away game.
If your itinerary includes San Francisco and you want to experience the atmosphere of an NBA game, be sure to book a Warriors home game. Sometimes, even though the games are all in California, the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles can be at least six hours, so you need to pay special attention to your travel schedule.
For first-time NBA ticket buyers, follow these three steps for a worry-free purchase:
- Please confirm whether the date, location, and schedule are for the Warriors' home arena (Chase Center).
- Choose a ticketing platform (Ticketmaster official ticketing, StubHub third-party resale).
- Select seats, pay for tickets, and save tickets to your mobile phone.
How to buy NBA tickets? A comparison of the differences between the two ticket purchase channels.
The NBA's official ticketing website is https://nbatickets.nba.com/ However, clicking "Buy Tickets" redirects to Ticketmaster, a ticketing platform that makes some travelers hesitant to purchase tickets. In fact, Ticketmaster is an officially authorized NBA ticketing platform, so there's no need to worry about being scammed. StubHub is another commonly used website for purchasing tickets, but it differs in that it's a third-party resale platform where sellers resell and price tickets themselves.
| Common platforms | Ticket purchase channels | Advantages | Precautions |
| Ticketmaster | Official authorized ticketing platform | The safest, most standardized process, least prone to errors | High transaction fees; popular sessions require advance purchase. |
| StubHub | Third-party resale platforms | Tickets are plentiful and may be cheaper closer to the match. | You must understand the ticket transfer process. |
[Beware of scams!]
Besides the two platforms mentioned above, some people may also resell tickets privately on social media, forums, and LINE. Unless it's someone you know or a very reliable group, it's not recommended to buy NBA tickets from strangers privately. The risk of transferring money is high, and you might receive counterfeit tickets. Furthermore, do not accept any tickets in the form of screenshots or photos; digital tickets must be officially transferred. Even if it's a face-to-face transaction, be sure to confirm an official transfer and that the tickets can be added to your mobile wallet (Apple Wallet / Google Wallet).
Ticketmaster Ticket Buying Tutorial
Buying tickets on Ticketmaster can be a little confusing for first-time users, especially since the interface is only in English in the US. But don't worry, you'll be fine if you follow these steps.
If you are accessing this page from the NBA website, please skip directly to step four.
1. Select the United States as the location in the top left corner (flag section).
2. Click on Sports in the top menu, and you will see NBA.
3. After clicking, scroll down to see the team list, find the Warriors (Golden State Warriors) and click on them. Buy and Sell Tickets (Buying/Reselling Tickets)
4. Next, select the date range and click Find Tickets.
5. The page will display:
- Area and Seating
- votes
- Ticket price (including handling fee, excluding tax)
- Whether it is a resale ticket (does not affect its use)
- 360° panoramic view
- After selecting the desired tickets, you need to register as a member, make payment, and finally confirm by swiping your card.
After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email specifying the session and ticket price. You can add the ticket to your mobile wallet from the email, or download the Ticketmaster App, log in, and find your purchased ticket in My Tickets. It is strongly recommended to save the ticket on your phone to avoid issues with unstable internet connection at the venue. Special reminder: Using screenshots or photographs may result in the barcode being unreadable and preventing entry.
Ticketmaster Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is the ticket price so expensive with the handling fee?
- Ticketmaster's fees include service fees, processing fees, etc. The price you see when voting usually includes the platform's fees, but taxes may still be added at checkout (depending on the state and city).
- What is Mobile Entry?
- There are no physical tickets; entry is by scanning/using a barcode with your mobile phone.
- Why did the card swipe fail?
- The issue could be due to a foreign credit card, an incorrect address field, or a mistake in the 3D verification process. Try using different credit cards from different systems and banks a few more times. It's also possible the transaction was terminated by the bank because it occurred overseas. If you receive a notification, contact the bank that issued your credit card.
- Is it normal not to receive the tickets immediately?
- You will usually receive a confirmation email within minutes of completing your ticket purchase. If you do not receive one after a long delay, you can check whether the card payment was successful and log in to your account to confirm from My Tickets.
StubHub Ticket Buying Tutorial
Buying tickets on StubHub often results in resale tickets, sold by other previously purchased ticket holders themselves at listed prices. It's also possible that season pass holders are reselling their tickets individually. Therefore, prices vary widely, determined by the market. It's possible to find tickets for more than the original price, but there's also a chance to snag great seats at a lower price closer to the game date!
The following is a brief introduction to the purchase steps:
1. Select NBA from the Sports dropdown menu on the homepage.
2. Select the location (San Francisco, CA) and date range in the upper right corner.
3. Select the match, time, and location you want to watch, or you can scroll down to select the team (Warriors).
(Note that "Warriors' Home Court" will be displayed at the end because there is an "@" symbol in the middle.)
4. After selecting the number of tickets, the price of each ticket (including handling fee) and a simulated view will be displayed.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to fill in your basic information and credit card details within the time limit, and complete the payment.
6. Next, StubHub will notify you of the successful purchase and inform the seller of the transfer. After the transfer, you will receive a confirmation email from StubHub stating "Your Tickets Are Ready".
7. Select "Accept Tickets" in your email to complete the ticket purchase process.
Some tickets need to be received and downloaded through the Ticketmaster App. Finally, it is recommended to store the tickets in your mobile wallet for the safest option.
StubHub Ticketing FAQs
- Do I need to negotiate or bargain with the seller on the ticket resale platform?
- No, it's all done through the platform, and you won't know who the seller is when you vote.
- Does the ticket purchase include a handling fee?
- When you vote, you will see the price of a ticket including the processing fee.
- If I buy a ticket and want to cancel or change the date, can I get a refund?
- StubHub does not accept refunds, cancellations, or seat changes, but most tickets can be resold on the platform without incurring fees, except for those marked "Resale not allowed".
- How can I verify that the ticket is genuine?
- StubHub is the most authoritative ticket resale platform in the United States. They guarantee that all transactions will be "accessible" and that tickets will be received on time. If any problems arise, the platform will assist in providing tickets of the same or better quality, or offer a full refund.
- When might it be cheaper?
- One to three days before the start of the match, some sellers may be unable to attend and need to sell urgently, which may present an opportunity to purchase at a lower price. Matches played on weekdays, matches with a significant disparity in skill levels, or matches without star players may be slightly cheaper, but these are general guidelines, and prices can vary depending on other factors.
Important Entry Rules at the Chase Center, Warriors' Home Arena
Chase Center has size restrictions for handbags. All bags, including tote bags, handbags, baby bags, and medical bags, must be smaller than 14 inches x 14 inches x 6 inches (approximately 35.6 x 35.6 x 15.2 cm). Bags exceeding the size limit can be stored in the bicycle parking area (east entrance, located on Terry A. Francois Avenue) for a fee of US$10, which will be donated to the Warrior Community Foundation.
Visitors should note that backpacks are not allowed inside the venue, except for drawstring backpacks with a specific compartment or small leather bags designed for fashion purposes.
Replaceable lenses, professional cameras larger than 3 inches, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. Recording and using flash photography are not allowed. Spectators are also prohibited from bringing any outside food, drinks, or reusable water bottles/flush dispensers into the venue. Those with special dietary needs must contact the venue directly for arrangements. Support items such as flags and posters are permitted, but with restrictions: size must not exceed 11 inches x 17 inches (approximately 27.9 x 43.1 cm); content must be related to the day's event; items must not be fixed to sticks or poles; must not obstruct the view of any sponsors, advertising billboards, or spectators, or pose any safety concerns; must not be hung, pasted, or displayed on any part of the venue building; must not contain obscene or offensive text or images; and must not obstruct the view of other spectators or pose any safety concerns. The management of the Grand Gateway Center will determine the severity of any violations.
Chase Center opens for admission 90 minutes before the Warriors' game. It is recommended to arrive at least 60 minutes before the game to allow time for ticket verification, security checks, and finding your seat. You can also have some food and drinks and explore the stadium before the game starts to avoid missing the exciting opening performance and the national anthem.
*Friendly Reminder: Venues typically enforce entry regulations very strictly. Even if you see online tutorials on how to bring prohibited items, don't try to follow them for convenience or to save money. Having your items discarded or being turned away is not worth it. We highly recommend bringing your mobile phone, credit card (which can be used at the stadium), and your excitement for the game – it's the most comfortable and convenient way to go!
How to choose your starting position without making a mistake? (Warriors Home Court Position Selection Guide)
NBA ticket prices fluctuate greatly and are highly correlated with the following factors:
- opponent(LakersCeltic is usually more expensive.
- Weekend or weekday
- Does the team have any star players?
- How close to the match time
- Team performance that year
You can first assess your budget and check ticket price fluctuations based on your travel dates in the US. If you have a specific opposing team or player you want to see, you can compare ticket prices on two platforms. If you don't have a specific target, you can decide on the game based on ticket price and seat location.
Beginner's Guide to Choosing a Location (Chase Center)
Image source: Golden State Warriors official website
As you can see from the image above, Chase Center is mainly divided into three sections. The two-digit sections are closest to the courtside, the 100 section is in the middle, and the highest is the 200 section. If you have no budget constraints and are a die-hard NBA fan, getting a courtside club ticket would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For the average person who wants to experience the intense atmosphere of the fans, the middle section, near the center line, is the 100 section. If you have a budget, the 200 section is a more affordable option.
Chase Center Transportation and Itinerary Planning
How do I get to the Chase Center?
The Chase Center is located in Mission Bay, San Francisco, and can be reached by public transportation or rental car. San Francisco's light rail/subway system is called... MuniThe T Line provides direct access to the venue, and additional S-Shuttle services are available on game days. For other travel arrangements or if you are staying in a more distant location,Rent a car and drive yourselfIt would be more convenient, but I recommend booking a paid parking lot in advance. It's more expensive but safer, and you won't have to spend time wandering around looking for a parking spot.
Extended Reading:San Francisco Parking Guide, Attraction Parking Lots and Parking Apps
In addition, Chase Center has partnered with ride-hailing service Lyft (similar to Uber) to offer a 50% discount on the first two rides to first-time registered users by entering the promo code.[CHAS CENTER] It can be used then. However, there may be a lot of people when the game ends, making it difficult to hail a taxi. You may consider walking to a more distant block or leaving early to avoid the crowds.For event details, please refer to [link/reference]
What are some things to do before and after watching the game? Recommended nearby attractions?
- Bayfront Park: The bayside promenade next to the golf course is a pleasant place to stroll when the weather is nice, and if you're lucky, you might even see sea lions sunbathing.
- Mission Bay: The area boasts a wide variety of restaurants, from upscale steakhouses and seafood restaurants to American and Mexican cuisine. Enjoy a meal and drinks before the game, and arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Oracle Park: Home of the San Francisco Giants (MLB), about a 15-minute walk away. You can take photos if you're passing by.
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art: About a 30-minute walk or a 15-minute bus ride away, enjoy art and culture during the day and catch a great game in the evening – catering to all tastes!
- Ferry Building: About a half-hour bus ride away, there are many unique shops and restaurants here. You can choose to sightsee in the city during the day, enjoy brunch, stroll around, and then head to the stadium in the evening.
Most of San Francisco's famous attractions, including the Palace of Fine Arts, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Fisherman's Wharf, are located on the northern side of the city. Renting a car and driving yourself is recommended for a more relaxed experience if you plan to visit them all in one day. (Reference:)Top 10 attractions around San Francisco and driving tips
Fun fact: Why isn't the "Golden State Warriors" called the "San Francisco Warriors"?
Since the Warriors' home arena, Chase Center, is located in downtown San Francisco, why is the team name not "San Francisco Warriors" but "Golden State Warriors"?
This is related to the Warriors' history. In fact, the Warriors have played in different cities including Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Oakland, and were indeed once called the San Francisco Warriors. However, the team management officially changed the name to the Golden State Warriors in 1971. They believed that the California nickname "Golden State" better reflected the team's history and influence, transcending the limitations of a single city. The Warriors also emphasized that the name symbolizes the Californian spirit, opportunity, and multiculturalism, not just geographical location, hoping to unite fans throughout the Bay Area, not just San Francisco.
After reading the complete guide to watching the NBA Warriors game, do you have a better understanding of buying, picking up, and entering the stadium, as well as planning your day? Finally, a simple reminder: as long as you master these three steps—confirming the game time, choosing a reliable ticketing platform, and downloading your tickets in advance—you'll be fine even if it's your first time.West Coast TourismEven first-time NBA viewers can easily get the hang of it. Live games are filled with music, cheers, and interactive games, offering a multi-faceted experience that television broadcasts simply can't replicate. If you're planning a trip to San Francisco, watching an NBA game is definitely a unique experience worth adding to your itinerary!
FAQ | NBA Tickets and Warriors Home Games: Frequently Asked Questions
What's the safest way to buy NBA tickets?
The most stable and lowest-risk way is to buy tickets through Ticketmaster, as it is the official NBA ticketing platform. For comparing prices or buying resale tickets, StubHub is a well-established and secure secondary ticketing platform in the US, ensuring your tickets are valid for entry.
Where is the Warriors' home arena? How do I get to Chase Center?
The Golden State Warriors' home arena is the Chase Center in San Francisco's Mission Bay district. You can get there by Muni (subway/light rail) or bus; service is frequent on game days, so parking isn't a problem. If you're considering longer journeys, you can rent a car or use ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft.
Do I have to use the Ticketmaster app to buy tickets?
Not necessarily. You can purchase tickets using either a computer or mobile phone and add them to your Apple Wallet/Google Wallet. However, in practice, downloading the Ticketmaster App is safer and more convenient if you need to log in again or check your tickets.
Can I enter the venue if my phone has no internet connection?
Yes, as long as you add your ticket to your mobile wallet beforehand. Entry is done by scanning the ticket barcode stored on your phone; an internet connection isn't required. However, screenshots or screen captures are usually not applicable.
How do I receive my tickets after buying them on StubHub?
After the purchase is complete, StubHub will send you an email. Simply click "Accept Tickets" to receive the tickets.
Some tickets will be transferred to the Ticketmaster system. After completing the receipt process as instructed, it is also recommended to add them to your mobile wallet for safekeeping.
When is the best time to buy Warriors tickets to get a cheaper price?
The price of sports betting fluctuates, making it difficult to determine when it's cheaper to buy tickets, but based on common patterns:
- One to three days before the start of the competition, some sellers may be unable to attend at the last minute, potentially resulting in lower prices.
- Weekday shows are usually cheaper than weekend shows.
- The price will be more favorable if the opponent is a weaker team or not a popular one.
- Seats further away are also cheaper.
The actual price will still be affected by factors such as the team's performance, whether there are star players, and special events.
Why is there such a big difference in transaction fees? What should I look for when checking out?
The service fee charged by the ticketing platform includes a service fee, a processing fee, and may also include taxes.
The price shown on the ballot page may not be the final amount. Be sure to confirm the total amount at the last step of checkout before deciding whether to pay.
What if I've already bought a ticket but can't go at the last minute?
It must be handled in accordance with the regulations of the ticketing platform:
- Ticketmaster: Most tickets are non-refundable, but can be resold through the official resale function.
- StubHub: Tickets are generally not refundable, but most tickets can be resold.
Whether a ticket can be resold and whether a handling fee will be deducted when reselling it depends on the ticket type.
Can I bring a bag or camera into the stadium to watch a game?
Chase Center has strict restrictions on bags, allowing only small clutches or wallets, and backpacks are only permitted in certain styles.
Regular cameras can take photos, but audio and video recording is prohibited, as is using flash. Professional equipment with interchangeable lenses or flash units are also prohibited.
What should I pay attention to when watching the NBA for the first time?
- Arrive at the venue 40–60 minutes early to allow time for security checks and finding a seat.
- My phone was fully charged, and tickets and payments were mostly in digital form.
- Carry a credit card or mobile payment device; most transactions inside the venue are cashless.
- Travel light to avoid being stopped from the outside due to an ill-fitting bag.
