World Jai-Alai League Kicks Off Ninth Season at the JAM Arena
The World Jai-Alai League (WJAL) is set to usher in a new era for the sport with the launch of its ninth competitive season on February 13 at the newly refurbished JAM Arena, formerly known as the Miami Jai-Alai facility. The much-anticipated opening night will kick off at 7 p.m. and will be followed by a special performance from renowned comedian Whitney Cummings, scheduled for 10 p.m. This season promises to elevate the excitement of jai-alai by merging fast-paced sport with top-tier entertainment.
The JAM Arena, located at 3500 NW 37th Ave in Miami, has undergone a significant multi-million-dollar renovation and rebranding project, marking a transformative moment for the sport of jai-alai. With a seating capacity of 1,500, the arena now boasts advanced audience amenities, including VIP courtside seating. Additionally, interactive family-friendly sports challenges are designed to enhance the spectator experience, making it an engaging environment for fans of all ages.
Scott Savin, the Chief Operating Officer of the World Jai-Alai League, emphasizes the importance of this refresh: "We're ready to kick off a new chapter for the sport of jai-alai, a sport that is iconically Miami, and introduce it to a new generation of fans. Pairing the world's fastest ball sport with nationally recognized entertainers like Whitney Cummings sets the tone for an updated sports and entertainment experience."
The jam-packed opening night of the league features Whitney Cummings as the headliner. Cummings has made a name for herself as one of comedy's most influential figures, having created and starred in NBC’s sitcom “Whitney” and co-writing and producing the Emmy-nominated series “2 Broke Girls.” She has also hosted the popular podcast “Good For You” and released her sixth stand-up special, titled “Mouthy,” in November 2023. Tickets for her limited engagement at the JAM Arena are available for purchase at
www.jamarena.com.
The WJAL's Winter Battle Court season will continue until May 8, offering fans a chance to witness high-intensity matchups featuring elite international athletes. The league is also committed to making a positive impact on the local community; since its inception in 2022, it has contributed over $400,000 to nonprofits in South Florida through various charitable partnerships.
Live jai-alai games will occur every Friday at the JAM Arena, with matches streaming live on ESPN3. Fans can also engage in legal betting for these events in Florida via the Hard Rock Bet app, and the matches will be available nationally through platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, and ESPN Bet.
In essence, the WJAL is focused on revitalizing jai-alai, also known as the world’s fastest ball sport, by modernizing its gameplay and leveraging the growing sports wagering market. By actively engaging with audiences through social media and live events, the league aims to attract a new generation of fans and reintroduce them to this exciting sport.
As the opening night approaches, anticipation builds not only for the matches but also for the opportunity to see Cummings perform live. This unique blend of sports and entertainment ensures that the ninth season of the World Jai-Alai League will be unlike any other, providing an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Stay tuned for more updates and be sure to visit the JAM Arena this February as the world of jai-alai takes on a bold new direction.