Ticket prices for Game 1 of Kings-Warriors playoff series in Sacramento hit all-time high

Ticket prices are hitting all-time highs in Sacramento as the Kings prepare to face the Golden State Warriors in the first round of the playoffs.

Northern California rivals will collide in a best-of seven series with the Kings making their first playoff appearance since 2006 and the defending NBA champion Warriors seeking their fifth title in 10 years.

The average price for Game 1 on Saturday at Golden 1 Center is the most expensive ticket on record for the first round of the NBA playoffs, according to TickPick. The site reports that ticket prices for games in Sacramento are twice as high as games at Chase Center in San Francisco.

“Ticket prices for the Kings-Warriors series are in high demand for a few reasons,” TickPick brand manager Kyle Zorn told The Sacramento Bee. “Most notably is the 16-year wait Kings fans have endured to see their team in the playoffs. Additionally, both franchises ranked in the top 15 this season for most expensive ticket prices with the Warriors being the most expensive ticket of the regular season. The close proximity between the two cities is allowing for more potential buyers for each game. There’s also a ton of hype on social media stemming from these teams featuring two of the best offenses in the NBA.”

TickPick is an online marketplace where users can buy, sell and bid on tickets to games, concerts and other live events. According to TickPick, the average purchase price for Game 1 at Golden 1 Center is $747. That is 778% higher than the average purchase price for Kings home games ($85), making it the most expensive Kings home game on record.

The current “get-in price” for Game 1 is $522 compared to $261 for Game 3 at Chase Center. TickPick notes that these figures represent “all-in prices” with no added fees for buyers.

As of Tuesday morning, Ticketmaster had listings ranging from $531.25 (fees included) for the upper level to $15,000 for courtside seats.

There are other options for fans in Sacramento who don’t want to make the trip to San Francisco in search of more affordable tickets. The Kings will host watch parties at Golden 1 Center for away games. Admission is free, but tickets will be required. For more information, visit kings.com/playoffs.