DJDS Plays at Ball Arena for the First Time Since 2014

Denver Jewish Day School returned to Ball Arena, formerly known as the Pepsi Center, for the first time since 2014, marking a rare opportunity for the school’s basketball program. The last time DJDS played at the arena was against Denver Academy of Torah, when DJDS swept the event. 

On Jan. 27, DJDS played against Front Range Christian, in front of a crowd of more than four hundred people, taking home the win for both the varsity girls and boys teams. “It was just an insane experience, I had so much fun; it was a surreal experience,” said Zeke Brooks, a player for the boys varsity team. “It’s like in those movies when the main character finally makes it to the big leagues.” 

When reflecting on the experience, Jerry Rotenberg compared this year’s event to previous years at the arena. “I was a little disappointed, because in past years the teams were able to experience more,” he said. In earlier experiences, teams were allowed access to the locker rooms, and Most Valuable Players from the high school games were brought onto the court during halftime of the Nuggets game. 

The process of securing a game at Ball Arena is extensive, often taking more than a year. Schools must place a deposit and wait to be selected after the Nuggets provide possible dates. 

Due to scheduling conflicts, DJDS was unable to face DAT this year. Because of the length and uncertainty of the process, DJDS does not plan to return to Ball Arena in the coming years.