Sprint Center’s Birthday Present

The Sprint Center in Kansas City, Mo., celebrated its third year by giving instead of getting – in the form of a $2.1 million profit-sharing payment to the city. The arena is the second-busiest North American venue to date this year.

It’s a notable achievement for any venue, but particularly for an arena without a pro sports anchor tenant. It’s more than made up the difference with concerts and other special events. In fact, according to Pollstar’s data through the third quarter of this year, Sprint Center ranks seventh in ticket sales for arenas worldwide, and is second only to Madison Square Garden in the U.S.

As part of its agreement to run the city-owned Sprint Center, AEG splits the profit north of 16 percent with Kansas City, according to the local Star newspaper.

“We couldn’t be more proud of our successful partnership with the city of Kansas City and the world-class reputation that Sprint Center has come to stand for,” AEG President/CEO Tim Leiweke said in a statement.

The city’s budget projected $1.8 million in profit-sharing revenue from AEG, with the money earmarked for subsidizing losses at Kemper Arena and the American Royal complex.

“It’s a $300,000 help, which will probably be applied to convention center needs and capital needs,” acting city manager Troy Schulte told the Kansas City Star.