New season brings new experiences for Hornets fans

Guests can expect an elevated viewing experience, new entry options, and new bag policy for events at the Spectrum Center.

An exterior shot of the Spectrum Center in Uptown on a clear day.

The Spectrum Center recently underwent four months of renovations before reopening for concerts and Hornets basketball.

Photo by CLTtoday

Spectrum Center will be buzzing when the Charlotte Hornets take the court vs. Miami in the season home opener Saturday night.

Buzz City promises guests a new experience — from hospitality spaces and frictionless technology to a wider variety of food and drink offerings. All these upgrades are part of Re!magine Spectrum Center.

An exterior shot of the Spectrum Center by the guest entrance.

Hornets fans can anticipate faster ticket lines when arriving for home games.

Photo by CLTtoday

Heading to the home opener? Here are some key changes.

  • New bag policy: Small clutches, crossbodies, and wristlets that don’t exceed 5in x 7in x 1.5in are permitted.
  • Arena entry: General admission guests may enter through the Fifth Street, Trade Street, or the brand new Light Rail entrances.
  • Early doors: Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.
  • New screening procedures: Spectrum Center now features state-of-the-art Evolv screening allowing for faster, safer, and easier entry.

“It’s something a lot of our fans talked about,” said Shelly Cayette-Weston, president of business operations with the Charlotte Hornets. “It’s been a long process getting in and out of the building. So now they can go in and not get their bags checked.”

The Hornets are encouraging fan donations and support for Helene relief efforts. On opening night, they’ll distribute 13,000 Carolina Strong T-shirts + additional shirts will be on sale for $35.

The team’s newly released tagline, Hive Mentality, will also be on full display. The first 10,000 fans at the game will receive Hive Mentality Rally Towels + a Hive Mentality marquee photo opp on the Main Concourse.

An artist's rendering of the Spectrum Center arena during a Charlotte Hornets' basketball game.

2,500 additional seats will bring more fans to be closer to game-time action. All seats throughout the bowl will be replaced.

Rendering via Charlotte Hornets.

“We’re just so thankful for our fans for their patience and for working with us to get through the first set of renovations,” said Cayette-Weston.

The arena will close again in May 2025 for phase two of renovations.

More from CLTtoday
It’s almost time for the biggest game of the year. We’re helping you plan it out.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that are worth planning ahead for.
The modern Mexican-inspired restaurant promises to deliver fresh flavors to Center City when it opens in early 2026.
The longstanding museum closed its temporary Uptown location in 2025 and will soon open a new two-building destination in South End.
While the Lunar New Year is on Tuesday, Feb. 17, there are plenty of ways to celebrate early in Charlotte.
From a completed neighborhood to announced retailers, the upcoming River District in West Charlotte is taking shape fast.
The highly-anticipated sushi restaurant coming to Plaza Midwood is partnering with Dilworth’s newest wine bar for an exclusive sampling.
From plastic bags and glass to cardboard boxes and food containers, we’ve got the 411 on recycling in Mecklenburg County.
Bundle up for a story on the biggest snow storms to chill the Queen City.
Escape the elements and spend time lounging at home or exploring the Queen City’s coziest spots for a relaxing day.