Look: Bucks go retro with game at old arena
The Milwaukee Bucks hadn't played a game at their former arena, the MECCA, since 1988. With the team prepping to move into a brand-new facility next season, however, they decided to go back in time Thursday by hosting the Boston Celtics at the 67-year-old building, now known as UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena.
The game was played on an exact replica of the Bucks' classic court, designed in 1978 by artist Robert Indiana - although Kyrie Irving may have believed it was the original hardwood.
Related: Kyrie finds footing on Bucks' retro floor
Milwaukee’s Mecca Court so dope
— Kyrie Fandles Club (@World_Wide_Wob) October 27, 2017
Feel like I just unlocked a secret stage in NBA Street pic.twitter.com/IyMGKUH4m3
With only 12,500 seats, the setting had the more intimate feel of a college gym, which is exactly what the arena is today.
I was a baby the last time the MECCA played host to an NBA game. Tonight the Bucks came back and I was there. It was cool. pic.twitter.com/WfQUGDY92h
— J. 🎃lson (@Cinemixtape) October 27, 2017
The Bucks also hoisted a banner for their sole NBA championship team, the 1971 squad led by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
The @Bucks also have the 1971 NBA Championship banner hanging from the rafters. A nice touch for "Return to the MECCA" night pic.twitter.com/a3ESnpKmVC
— Stephen Watson (@WISN_Watson) October 26, 2017
The Celtics spoiled the festivities, winning 96-89.
(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)