Yes, the tickets are pricey, but so are the pints of pilsner folks consume during happy hour or the espressos we cannot seem to function without.
Here's a thought: Skip the beverages and feed off the energy and atmosphere of high school playoff basketball instead.
The Sac-Joaquin Section boys and girls basketball championships return to Sleep Train Arena today and Saturday, a reward for top teams eager to play in the NBA setting.
Tickets are $17 for adults and $8 for kids, students and seniors for each day for four games today and six Saturday.
Saturday's boys action features Antelope and upstart Grant in Division II at 4:30 p.m. and Sheldon and Pleasant Grove, The Bee's top two ranked teams, in Division I at 8:30 p.m.
Grant is led by guard De'Sean Parsons, while Antelope has rebounding ace Isaiah Ellis, and both schools bring large rooting sections.
Sheldon and Pleasant Grove feature college-bound players and are models for how to share the ball.
I have watched my share of high school, college and NBA events since the mid-1980s, and you can't beat the entertainment value of the high school basketball playoffs.
What to do
College baseball, Utah Valley at Sacramento State, 2 p.m., John Smith Field: Hornets second baseman Andrew Ayers returns from his four-game suspension.
Today's poll
Do you enjoy high school sports at Sleep Train Arena?
• Yes, it's a great show.
• No, it's too expensive.
• I have no interest.
Vote above or leave your comments in the comment field; or, go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Thursday's poll results
If the Kings land the top pick in the draft, which player should they take?
• Ben McLemore: 8%
• Shabazz Muhammad: 31%
• Nerlens Noel: 15%
• Marcus Smart: 6%
• Cody Zeller: 10%
• Other: 7%
• Trade pick: 23%
Total votes: 301
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