Charlotte Hornets to host All-Star Game in 2017

WASHINGTON - The NBA announced Tuesday that Charlotte has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2017.

Last time the Charlotte Hornets hosted an All-Star Game was in 1991 and the game is scheduled for Feb. 19, 2017.

The Hornets are owned by Michael Jordan, the six-time NBA champion, who has sought to bring the game to Charlotte since he became the team's majority owner in 2010. Meanwhile the city agreed to pay about 30 million US dollars for renovations to the arena when the Hornets submitted their All-Star bid.

"As a thriving city with a proud basketball tradition and a deep passion for the game, the city of Charlotte is a terrific All-Star destination," said NBA commissioner Adam Silver.

"We thank Michael Jordan, the Hornets organization and the Charlotte community for their support and congratulate them on bringing our All-Star festivities back to North Carolina."

Jordan, a 14-time All-Star, played in the last All-Star Game in Charlotte 24 years ago.

"It is an honor to bring NBA All-Star back to Charlotte," Jordan said. "I remember the excitement of playing in the 1991 All-Star Game, the first one held in my home state, and I take pride in being able to host NBA All-Star 2017 as the owner of the Hornets. This is a great moment for our fans, our city, and our franchise. We are excited to welcome the world to Charlotte and Time Warner Cable Arena in 2017."