SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – Outside of Armenia, the Golden State Warriors took a momentous step to honor their Armenian community during a thrilling matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 18. Known for breathtaking basketball skills and electric gameplay, the Warriors made the night even more special by celebrating Armenian Heritage Night, a manifestation of pride that brought together fans and community members alike.

In California, which is home to one of the most significant Armenian populations outside of Armenia, the love for basketball is growing. With many Armenians passionately supporting teams like the Lakers in Los Angeles and the Warriors in the Bay Area, this event resonated deeply with the local community. Head coach Steve Kerr, known for his leadership both on and off the court, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Armenian heritage through sport.

Before the players took to the hardwood, fans were treated to a vibrant traditional Armenian dance performance, filling the arena with an atmosphere of cultural celebration. Dancer Areg Nersisyan from the Vonn Dance School of the St. Andrew Armenian Church noted the excitement of performing in front of such a large audience, stating, “It’s awesome. There are a lot of eyes on you, so it’s a little nerve-wracking, but we came in with so much energy, and I think our excitement showed through our performance.”

Halftime brought more excitement as the stars of Armenia’s women’s basketball team, known as Homenetmen Ani, showcased their skills in a scrimmage that captivated the crowd. Alin Azadkhanian, Chairperson of Homenetmen Ani, reflected on the moment, declaring, “Hearing our name mentioned here at Chase Center was one of the best moments of the night, and possibly this year.”

After the Warriors clinched their victory over the Bucks, Coach Kerr took a moment to reflect on his family’s history. Sharing the poignant story of his grandparents, who dedicated their lives to supporting Armenian orphans during the genocide, Kerr pointed out how meaningful Armenian Heritage Night is for him. “They were relief workers who started an orphanage for Armenian children,” he recalled, emphasizing the impact of their incredible legacy.

Kerr also spoke about the connection he feels with the Armenian community, recounting how grateful fans often approach him to thank him for his grandparents’ work. “Once a month, someone tells me, ‘I’m only here because of your grandparents.'” Coach Rex Kalamian of the Milwaukee Bucks, a proud Armenian himself, remarked on the unity and love within the Armenian community, highlighting the significance of the evening.

As the echoes of applause and cheers filled the air, Armenian fans left the arena with unforgettable memories and a hopeful vision for the future. Thrilled by the success of the event, Ani Hovannisian expressed the excitement of hosting similar events in the Central Valley, stating, “An Armenian Heritage Night with the Bulldogs or any Fresno teams would be exhilarating, and I would be there in a flash.”

Moreover, ticket sales from this historic game are set to support Hoops for Hayastan, providing opportunities for kids in Armenia to engage in basketball. In an added treat for fans, the Armenian national basketball team is scheduled to face Costa Rica on June 6 in Fresno, promising more action and excitement for the local Armenian community.