New Luxury Private Members Clubs Transform NBA Game Experience

This NBA season has introduced two luxurious members-only clubs, The Ra Ra Room in Phoenix and HIPP in Cleveland, enhancing the game-day experience for affluent fans. The Ra Ra Room, located within the Mortgage Matchup Center, is the creation of Mat Ishbia, owner of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury, in collaboration with Major Food Group co-founders Mario Carbone, Jeff Zalaznick, and Rich Torrisi. This private dining club features an Art Deco-inspired design, offering an opulent atmosphere complete with a full bar and an elevated menu that includes signature dishes like spicy rigatoni and tableside Caesar salad. Members enjoy direct access to their seats via a private walkway, allowing them to seamlessly transition from dining to the game.

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The Ra Ra Room operates on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during Suns home games, with an annual membership fee starting at $15,000, excluding meals and event tickets. Ishbia describes the venue as a destination that merges luxury hospitality with the vibrant energy of Phoenix sports. Mario Carbone emphasizes that it aims to redefine hospitality standards in the area.

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In Cleveland, HIPP, developed by The h.wood Group, offers a similarly exclusive experience at Rocket Arena, home of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Inspired by the historic Hippodrome Theatre, HIPP accommodates only 100 guests per night, providing a personalized dining and cocktail experience. Membership is by invitation only and currently at capacity, offering members a private entrance, valet parking, and unlimited concessions. HIPP also hosts exclusive events and gifts throughout the season, enhancing its appeal to high-profile athletes and celebrities.

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The emergence of these private clubs reflects a growing trend in sports entertainment, where luxury experiences are increasingly integrated into traditional sporting events. The h.wood Group, known for its successful ventures in the L.A. dining and entertainment scene, aims to establish a cultural hub within the arena, blending world-class sports with high-end hospitality.

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While these developments cater to a wealthy clientele, they may also raise concerns regarding accessibility and inclusivity in sports entertainment. Critics argue that such exclusive offerings could alienate average fans who cannot afford the high membership fees, potentially creating a divide in the game-day experience.

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In statements regarding The Ra Ra Room, Ishbia highlighted its role as a luxurious destination, while Carbone noted the club's potential to elevate hospitality standards. The h.wood Group expressed its vision for HIPP as a reimagined gathering place that honors the grandeur of its historical inspiration.

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• “The Ra Ra Room is designed to be a destination in and of itself with the added convenience of Phoenix’s best sports and entertainment offerings in the very same building,” — Mat Ishbia, Owner of Phoenix Suns and Mercury

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• “HIPP provides a nod to the grandeur and lavish interiors of one of the world’s greatest playhouses and reimagines what a central gathering place and cultural hub looks like today courtside, blending world class sport, entertainment and design.” — The h.wood Group

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These new private clubs signify a shift in the sports entertainment landscape, where luxury and exclusivity are becoming integral to the fan experience.

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