Longing to watch an NBA game live but unsure how to buy tickets, worried about special rules at the Lakers' home arena, Crypto.com Arena, or anything else to be aware of? This article provides a complete guide to buying NBA tickets, the purchasing process and precautions on Ticketmaster and StubHub, and the rules for entering Crypto.com Arena on game day, including bag restrictions. Finally, it answers frequently asked questions about attending games, whether you're a fan of the game or not.First time in Los AngelesIf this is your first time buying NBA tickets, follow these steps to avoid making a mistake!
Highlight the finishing touches:
First, make sure you bought a ticket for the "Lakers' home game".
In the NBA schedule, home games refer to games played in a fixed arena in a team's own city; away games are played in the arena of the opposing team. For example, the Lakers' home games are held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, while their away games are played in the cities of other teams.
If toLos Angeles TourismIf you want to watch the NBA, you have to buy tickets for the Lakers' home games. How can you tell from the ticketing platform?
- The game will display the "Game Location". Crypto.com Arena is the Lakers' home arena.
- If the Lakers are listed first on the official schedule, it's a home game; otherwise, it's an away game.
For first-time NBA ticket buyers, follow these three steps for a worry-free purchase:
- Please confirm the date, location, and schedule to ensure the game is at the Lakers' home arena (Crypto.com Arena).
- 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.
- Select the United States as the location in the top left corner (flag section).
- Click on Sports in the top menu, and you'll see NBA.
- After clicking, scroll down to see the team list, find the Lakers (Los Angeles Lakers) and select 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:
- Select NBA from the Sports dropdown menu on the homepage.
- Select the location (Los Angeles, CA) and date range in the upper right corner.
- Choose the match, time, and location you want to watch, or you can scroll down to select the team (Lakers).
(Note that "Lakers Home Court" will be displayed at the end because there is an "@" symbol in the middle.)
- After selecting the number of tickets, the price of each ticket (including handling fees) 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.
Lakers home arena Crypto.com Arena: Entry rules and precautions
Crypto.com Arena has very strict entry rules, prohibiting the bringing of any bags, including backpacks, handbags, tote bags, transparent bags, waist bags, and camera bags. Only thin clutches and wallets smaller than 5 inches × 9 inches × 1 inch (approximately 12.7 × 22.9 × 2.5 cm), slightly larger than a typical mobile phone, are allowed, but will be subject to security screening. Medical bags and diaper bags (mother bags) are permitted, but if their dimensions are smaller than 14 inches × 14 inches × 6 inches (approximately 35.6 × 35.6 × 15.2 cm), they must be inspected using X-ray security equipment.
If attendees have large bags, they can use the Binbox Locker paid locker service. The lockers are located next to the Kobe Bryant entrance and near the LA Kings monument. They can be rented through the Binbox App and its built-in payment system.
Audience members may take photos with non-professional cameras, but recording video or using flash is prohibited. Recording with any equipment is strictly prohibited at some screenings. Audience members are not allowed to bring outside food or beverages into the venue, but each person may bring up to one liter of unopened bottled water.
If you want to experience the NBA from the beginning, it is recommended to arrive 40-60 minutes early on the day of the game. In addition to checking your ticket, going through security, and finding your seat, you can also buy food and drinks inside the stadium. Sometimes there are also small interactive activities with the audience or free food/drink samples/gifts.
*Friendly Reminder: The US enforces entry regulations very strictly. Do not take chances by trying to smuggle prohibited items or oversized bags through security; being turned away will not be worth the risk. The most convenient thing to do when watching a game is to bring your phone and credit card.
How to choose seats and manage your budget for Lakers home game tickets to avoid regrets?
NBA ticket prices fluctuate greatly and are highly correlated with the following factors:
- Opponents (Warriors and Celtics are 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.
Tips for beginners on choosing a location
Crypto.com Arena has three levels; the lower the number, the closer you are to the stadium and the more immersive the experience. If budget isn't a concern, the closer you are to the stadium, the better the experience. However, the experience in section 200 (the second level) is already quite good. Section 300 (the third level) has the cheapest seats in the back, but the experience is likely to be weaker.
- To get a feel for the atmosphere: 200 zone center line, side
- Want to see the player's expression: Zone 100, but avoid directly behind the basket.
- Saving money is the priority: select the middle section of the 300 zone.
Image source: Ticketmaster
Hopefully, this article will completely answer your questions and concerns about buying tickets. Basically, as long as you clearly understand the steps of "ticket selection, ticket collection, and ticket download" and the admission rules, even if it's your first time watching an NBA game, you don't need to worry too much. NBA games are not just sporting events, but also part of American culture; besides watching the game, you can also drink beer, eat pizza, cheer with the entire audience, and there are often interactive games during timeouts or halftime. It's an unforgettable experience. If you go to...American tourismDon't miss this thrilling, exciting, and fun experience!
(The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent an actual match.)
FAQ | NBA Tickets and Frequently Asked Questions about Lakers Home Games
What's the safest way to buy NBA tickets?
Ticketmaster, the official platform, is the most stable, while StubHub, a large secondhand platform, also offers good security.
Do I absolutely need the Ticketmaster app to buy tickets?
Not necessarily. You can add tickets to your mobile wallet using the web version, but having an app is safer.
Can I enter without internet access?
Yes, as long as you add the ticket to your mobile wallet (Apple Wallet/Google Wallet) beforehand.
How do I receive my tickets after buying them on StubHub?
To complete the transfer, click "Accept Tickets" in your email or personal account.
Can I bring a bag to Crypto.com Arena?
Restrictions are strict; most bags are not permitted, and only clutches or wallets smaller than 5 inches × 9 inches × 1 inch (approximately 12.7 × 22.9 × 2.5 cm) are allowed. Medical and childcare bags are limited to 14 inches × 14 inches × 6 inches (approximately 35.6 × 35.6 × 15.2 cm) and must pass through X-ray security screening.
Where is the Lakers' home arena?
Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles.
Address: 1111 S. Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Can I buy tickets directly at the venue?
Yes. Currently, ticket booths are open every Tuesday from 12 PM to 4 PM, or three hours before the start of the event, but tickets will be provided digitally; there are no paper tickets. (Subject to official announcements)
How long before the start of the match is the best time to arrive?
We recommend 40–60 minutes to avoid security checks and queues at the entrance. Arriving early will make it faster to buy food and drinks, and you can also browse the nearby shops.
What if I bought the wrong date or can't go?
Refunds are typically not guaranteed and will be handled according to platform rules. You may consider resale mechanisms from Ticketmaster or StubHub.
Why are Ticketmaster and StubHub's transaction fees so high?
The fees include platform service fees and processing fees, and sales tax may also be added depending on the region, which is standard practice in the US ticketing industry.
