The Hornets reduced capacity this season to 19,925 seats from 23,799. For the playoffs, Burch says opening extra seats hasn't been discussed. The strong start in the playoffs offers promise for the upcoming arena referendum, as well as boosting fan support for next season. If they get past Miami, the Hornets match up well with potential second-round opponents Milwaukee and Orlando. Charlotte hasn't advanced past the second round in its 13-year history.
People begin to see the excitement of having a team to rally around.
It's like the Panthers going to the NFC Championship in 1996. Steve Luquire, a local advertising executive working on a campaign supporting the referendum, says playoff success shouldn't determine what happens with the arena. It's about building Charlotte's future. We want the Hornets to do well, but whatever happens, we need to pass this referendum for the good of the city's growth down the road.