SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 News) – The Utah Jazz are expected to play their first home game of the season Friday. For the businesses in downtown Salt Lake the news couldn't be better.
With the Jazz back, millions of dollars will go back into the Utah economy, some were worried those millions would never return. Now, stores around Energy Solutions Arena are breathing a sigh of relief.
The Jazz are back.
"It's going to be good to get out there and see what happens," said Paul Millsap, Utah Jazz Forward.
"Feels great to get back home," said Tyrone Corbin, Utah Jazz Head Coach.
They're not alone; fans are already waiting for autographs, and businesses near Energy Solutions Arena are jumping for joy.
"We're excited to have them back," said Makayla Denton, Manager, Thaifoon Taste of Asia.
"Ecstatic, super excited," said Susan Shrum, Operating Partner, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
"There's no question on Jazz nights we're a lot busier," said Brady Lambert, Manager, Ben & Jerry’s.
Months ago many wondered if there would be any games at all. A lockout threatened to cancel the entire NBA season. Finally after 149 days, owners and players came to a new collective bargaining agreement, and games are now back on.
"We've been waiting for it since the lockout, so it feels great," said Derrick Favors, Utah Jazz Forward.
With the Jazz back on home court, restaurants downtown are anticipating a big boost in sales.
"Last Wednesday we had one of our biggest Wednesdays we've had in over a year,” said Denton.
“And that was just a preseason game?” asked Reporter Brian Carlson.
“Yah, that was a preseason game," Denton said.
"(Normally) we do about 200 covers in about 5 hours,” said Shrum.
“And on a Jazz night?” asked Carlson.
“We do 200 in an hour and a half," Shrum said.
For restaurants like Fleming’s that means an extra $10,000 a night.
To handle the crowds expected Friday, ABC 4 is told, restaurants are not only adding extra food and extra staff; they're also creating food specials just for Jazz fans.
