Is Crypto.com Arena the Staples Center
The venue formerly known as Staples Center is now officially named Crypto.com Arena, following a naming rights deal with the cryptocurrency exchange Crypto.com. The rebranding took effect on December 25, 2021, and the arena is owned and operated by AEG, the Los Angeles-based live entertainment and sports company. Crypto.com Arena remains the primary indoor arena in Los Angeles and hosts NBA, NHL, and major concert events. The naming agreement is part of a broader trend of crypto and fintech brands securing high-profile venue rights in major cities.
The arena is located in the L.A. Live entertainment complex in downtown Los Angeles and sits adjacent to the Microsoft Theater and the Los Angeles Convention Center. It serves as the home venue for the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers of the NBA, as well as the Los Angeles Kings of the NHL. The facility was originally opened as Staples Center in 1999 after a naming rights deal with office products company Staples, Inc. The transition to Crypto.com Arena marked the end of the Staples naming era for the venue.
Ownership, Capacity, and Key Events
Crypto.com Arena has a seating capacity of approximately 19,079 for basketball and 18,000 for hockey, with additional standing-room and club seating options. The arena is operated by AEG Facilities, a subsidiary of Anschutz Entertainment Group, which also manages venues such as The O2 in London and the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Berlin. The naming rights deal with Crypto.com is reported to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars over multiple years, though the exact financial terms have not been fully disclosed by the parties involved.
The venue hosts major annual events including the Grammy Awards, the MTV Video Music Awards, and numerous NBA All-Star games. It also regularly features international touring artists, WWE events, and college basketball tournaments. The arena is frequently cited as one of the busiest and highest-grossing venues in North America. Its central location in downtown Los Angeles makes it a key part of the city's entertainment and tourism infrastructure.
Crypto.com Arena vs. Staples Center: Key Differences
The primary difference between Crypto.com Arena and Staples Center is the naming rights holder and the associated branding. The physical structure, seating layout, and core operations remain largely unchanged since the original opening. The rebranding introduced new digital signage, Crypto.com branding throughout the concourses, and integration of Crypto.com's payment and loyalty ecosystem where applicable. The venue's official name, address, and operational management remained consistent through the transition.
The shift from Staples Center to Crypto.com Arena reflects the growing influence of fintech and cryptocurrency brands in mainstream sports and entertainment sponsorship. Similar naming rights deals have appeared in other major venues and leagues worldwide. The arena's continued prominence as a host for premier basketball, hockey, and concert events underscores the enduring value of the venue regardless of the naming rights partner.
Recent Developments and Venue Status
As of the latest available public information, Crypto.com Arena continues to operate as a top-tier indoor arena in Los Angeles under the management of AEG. The venue has undergone periodic upgrades to its sound, lighting, and video systems to maintain its status among leading North American arenas. Ongoing renovations and technology updates aim to enhance the fan experience for both live attendees and broadcast audiences.
The arena's role as a major host venue for esports, concerts, and award shows remains strong, with its calendar typically filled months in advance. The Crypto.com naming partnership is expected to continue shaping the venue's branding and digital initiatives in the near term. For the latest updates on events and operations, the official Crypto.com Arena website provides current schedules and ticketing information.
References and Further Reading
For background on the Staples Center naming history and the transition to Crypto.com Arena, see the venue overview on the official