Growing up a Philadelphia Sixers fan, I love going to home games whenever I get a chance; so when I saw a contest to win floor seat tickets to one of the last games of the season, I couldn’t resist entering. I’ve applied for plenty of contests in the past and never won, so I didn’t expect to win this one; but to my surprise,  a couple days later I received an email stating that I had indeed won the contest!

At first I was a little skeptical, thinking it was a scam because it didn’t come from someone at the Sixers; but after further research and contact with the representatives, I was put in touch with the right person on the Sixers team.

The winning package included four floor seat tickets, free VIP parking, unlimited drinks (including alcoholic beverages) and food, in-seat service and a swag bag.  Two of my friends, Justin and Ricia, are big Sixers fans like me so I asked them to come. Then I asked my friend Tyler to join as well because he has never been to a game.

When we got there, we got to go into the VIP entrance, and the Sixers representative led us to our seats. Once we were settled in, we were featured on the JumboTron as the contest winners.

As the game went on, we took advantage of the in-seat service so we didn’t miss a minute of the action. The first half was a pretty close game, but then the Sixers dominated during the second half.

It was so surreal seeing the players up close; I have been to plenty of games before but have never been that close. Some of the players looked larger-than-life and others looked just as I expected them to. It is a much different experience than watching on TV or in the 200 Level. You can actually hear what the players are saying and won’t miss any of the exciting plays.

Although I am very thankful for that experience and being the contest winner, I don’t think going to a Sixers game will ever be the same for me again.

— Mary Melnick, social media and editorial coordinator