Everyone's an all-star at Jam Session

Hoops heaven has come to downtown Phoenix. Opening Thursday in conjunction with the National Basketball Association's All-Star Game is the Jam Session, an all-encompassing interactive playground to show off the sport's fun.

All-Star-level parties, events in Valley

The event at the Phoenix Convention Center runs through Monday.

Across the street from US Airways Center, home to the game itself, is the first-ever NBA All-Star Block Party. That, too, opens Thursday and lasts through the weekend.

At the Jam Session, attendees can measure their feet against those of giants such as LeBron James (size 16, for the record). Or, they can feel like a giant by dunking on an 8-foot rim.

There will be autograph sessions with stars of the NBA and WNBA, showmanship from the Harlem Globetrotters, instructional clinics, merchandise stores, video games and novelties such as "Slamball," which is basketball played on a floor of trampolines. Local flavor will be found at the "Planet Orange" booth, dedicated to everything Phoenix Suns.

For those who need some competition, Jam Session features a tournament of teams from Valley middle schools, all-star games of wheelchair athletes and the NBA Developmental League, and dunking contests with mascots and celebrities.

Already sold out are Friday afternoon's celebrity game and Saturday morning's practice of the NBA all-stars.

Gail Hunter, NBA senior vice president for events and attractions, said Jam Session provides fans a more intimate, leisurely setting in which to enjoy the atmosphere and meet their favorite athletes.

"We recognize, with the All-Star Game, most fans don't get an opportunity to go over to (game site) US Airways Center," Hunter said. "We brought it all here."

Thankfully, the convention center has the space to host it all there. Jam Session is taking place over 500,000 square feet, between two floors, featuring three full courts (one surrounded by a makeshift 3,500-seat arena) and six half-courts.

The NBA expects 100,000 basketball fans to attend over the five days, Hunter said.

Single-day tickets cost $20 for adults and $12 for children ages 3 to 12, seniors and military personnel with valid ID. Children ages 2 and younger enter for free.

But Hunter let slip that no one should have to pay face value.

"There's a ton of promotions out there in the market with discount coupons," she said.

The NBA All-Star Block Party also will feature appearances by NBA players active and legendary, live musical performances and video game kiosks, plus basketball-themed activities and competitions.

In addition, TNT and NBA TV will broadcast their live studio shows from the block party on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Admission to the block party, sponsored by Right Guard, is free.

NBA All-Star Jam Session

Where: Phoenix Convention Center, north buildings, 100 N. Third St.

When: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday

Admission: $20 adults; $12 children ages 3-12 seniors and military personnel with valid ID; free for children 2 and younger.

Web site: www.nba.com/jamsession

NBA All-Star Block Party

Where: Jefferson and Second streets, across from US Airways Center

When: 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 2 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Admission: Free