Atlanta is trying to steal the 2017 NBA All-Star Game from Charlotte

Atlanta is welcoming the NBA to move the 2017 All-Star Game to their city from Charlotte, because of North Carolina’s controversial legislation.

After a successful 2016 NBA All-Star Game in Toronto, all sights were moved ahead to the 2017 NBA All-Star Game in Charlotte, where the league would host their big annual event on a global platform next year, as they try to build onto a growing brand internationally.

However, there have been some disturbing developments in the state of North Carolina lately that could end up causing the league to move their big yearly branding event from the Queen City. The controversial House Bill 2 in North Carolina, recently banned a nondiscrimination law, which was set to better protect the the LGBT community.

The discriminating piece of legislation has been receiving plenty of negative attention nationally and because of the league’s strong supportive alliance with the LGBT community, this could very well force the league’s hand and cause them to move the 2017 NBA All-Star Game.

While it might be tough because of logistics at this point to move it, one city is offering the league their services and a chance for the NBA to promote their global initiatives. That place is Atlanta, which neighbors Charlotte and could very well become an easy transition for the league if they feel inclined to move the 2017 NBA All-Star Game.

The Atlanta City Council has already drawn up a resolution to help bring the game to a city that prides itself on its diverse culture and proud ties with the LGBT community. Speaking to WSCOTV, Council President Caesar Mitchell mentioned why Atlanta is a great place to host the game.

"“The City of Atlanta draws strength from our diverse community,” said Council President Mitchell. “This unity creates our city’s embracing spirit, a quality that has made Atlanta the destination of choice for numerous international business conventions, professional and college sporting events, as well as one of the largest concentrations of Fortune 500 companies in the nation. We would certainly welcome the opportunity to show that very spirit as the host of the 2017 NBA All-Star Weekend.”"

At this point it’s unclear whether or not the league will move the game, but as long as the controversial legislation stands, it doesn’t seem like Charlotte is a viable option for a league that is always at the global front of leading on progressive issues.

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