RALEIGH, NC (WNCN) – Sporting goods stores around the Triangle are having a hard time keeping up as Panthers apparel is flying off the shelves following their NFC Championship victory, earning them a spot in the Super Bowl.
Dick’s Sporting Goods, which usually opens at 9 a.m., opened at 6 a.m. on Monday at Triangle Town Center in anticipation of Panthers fans wanting to get their hands on new gear. Some fans took advantage of a day without school and work and stocked up on new merchandise.
“I don’t think you can ever have too much Panthers gear,” said Harrison Stickel. “When you’re supporting your team you need to go all out.”
“We’re going to the Super Bowl for the second time,” said 10-year-old Will Williams. “I’m really excited about it.”
As the excitement grows, so do ticket prices for Super Bowl 50. Many fans have looked into going to San Francisco to cheer on the Panthers, but hesitated after seeing the cost.
The cheapest tickets are going for about $3,700 on Stubhub and hotel/ticket packages are starting at $5,775, according to PrimeSport. On the same site, a package with hotel/ticket/round-trip airfare begins at $6,995.
“I’m pretty comfortable with our chances of winning,” said Alvin West. “I would love to go, but I’m also looking forward to watching this one at home with my family.”
If you are looking around for tickets for the big game, the Better Business Bureau says you should be careful of ticket scams. Here are some tips for safe ticket purchases:
Check out the seller/broker. Look them up on bbb.org to see what others have experienced. Check to see if they are a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (natb.org). NATB members offer a 200 percent guarantee on tickets that don’t arrive in time for a game, concert or show.
Know the difference between a ticket broker (a legitimate and accredited reseller) and a ticket scalper (an unregulated and unlicensed ticket seller).
Check the ticket broker’s refund policy. Only buy from a ticket reseller that provides clear details about the terms of the transaction.
Always use a credit card so you have some recourse if the tickets are not as promised; do not use cash.
Check out the seats ahead of time. Always ask for section, row and seat number to avoid obstructed view seats or seats that do not exist. Also, feel free to ask questions to make certain you get all the answers you need to feel comfortable with your ticket purchase.
