 As the NBA Finals shift to Indianapolis for Games 3 and 4, thousands of fans will descend on Gainbridge Fieldhouse. While the Pacers battle for the city’s first major pro title since 2012 (Indiana Fever), visitors can also champion local entrepreneurs. Â
Here are standout minority-owned businesses to support during the 2025 NBA Finals:
Burgeezy
Craving a classic burger with flair? Burgeezy delivers. This vegan-friendly eatery was founded by Kadeesha & Antoine Wiggins and offers gourmet smash burgers. Located at 335 W 9th Suite D. Open Tuesday to Sunday. Learn more: burgeezy.com
Liftoff Creamery
June in Indianapolis is often scorching hot. Cool down with unique, small-batch ice cream. Liftoff Creamery, started by Ryan Lynch, features inventive flavors. Expect options like Ube or Brown Butter Bourbon. They also offer vegan choices. Visit their shop at 111 E 16th St., which is open daily. Learn more: liftoffcreamery.com
Hoagies and Hops
This spot combines two passions. Hoagies and Hops crafts overstuffed East Coast-styled sandwiches alongside craft beer. Owner Kristina Mazza focuses on quality. Try their Philadelphia cheesesteaks while in town for the NBA Finals. Located at 4155 Boulevard Place. Open Tuesday to Sunday. Pick and roll to Hoagies and Hops today. Learn more: hoagiesandhops.com
Punkin’s Sweet Treats
Satisfy your sweet tooth with Punkin’s pies. Owner Joanna Wilson uses family recipes. Her sweet potato pie is a slam dunk. The shop offers whole pies, slices and other desserts. Find them at 1220 Waterway Blvd. Open Tuesday to Saturday. Learn more: punkinspies.com
Tea’s Me Cafe
Owned by basketball Hall-of-Famer Tamika Catchings, Tea’s Me Cafe is an Indy staple. Catchings led the Fever to Indy’s last pro title in 2012. Now she serves over 100 loose-leaf teas, coffee and light bites. It’s a relaxed spot near downtown at 140 E 22nd Suite B. Open daily. Learn more: teasmeindy.com.
Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals begins at 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time on June 11 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on TikTok @HorsemenSportsMedia. For more news, click here.
