The organizing committee for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game on Wednesday announced its first community initiative—and it’s a throwback to one launched ahead of the 2012 Super Bowl.
The "Nothing But Knit" initiative aims to collect upwards of 5,000 knitted and crocheted beanie-style hats from volunteers across the state, which will be worn by volunteers and front-line hospitality workers.
The beanies also will be distributed to players, coaches and league, team and media officials in Indianapolis for All-Star Weekend events Feb. 12-14, 2021.
Rick Fuson, chairman of the game’s local organizing committee and chief operating officer of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, said Nothing But Knit draws inspiration from the "Super Scarves" initiative conducted prior to Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis in 2012 that collected more than 13,000 hand-made scarves from across the state.
“We know historically that our community wants to get involved in prepping for events like this,” Fuson said in a written statement, noting that organizers sought to build upon initiatives for previous events.
A limited number of kits will be available for free from multiple locations in Indianapolis—the Bankers Life Fieldhouse guest relations desk, 125 S. Pennsylvania St.; Broad Ripple Knit Shop, 6510 N. Cornell Ave.; and the downtown branch of the Indianapolis Public Library, 40 E. St. Clair St. Fans also are permitted to use their own navy blue or gold yarn to make a hat.
The Pacers also are expected to offer fans an opportunity to attend a game for free and create a beanie.
Approved yarn colors, sizing information and shipping instructions can be found online.
“When we host events in Indianapolis, we always strive to make it more than a game," NBA All-Star 2021 board member Carolene Mays-Medley said in written remarks. "Our community comes together with a sense of pride to showcase Hoosier Hospitality at its finest. These colorful beanies will be visible throughout our city during NBA All-Star 2021 weekend, representing a warm thank you to the thousands of volunteers and hospitality workers who will take this event to the next level.”
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