INDIANAPOLIS -- A National Basketball Association lockout loomed Wednesday night, possibly impacting Indianapolis business owners.

NBA Commissioner David Stern said the players turned down a labor proposal from the owners last Friday.

The lockout could hurt Indy business owners, as fans coming to a home Pacers game at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis would likely spend some of their time and money at downtown retailers, 6News' Ericka Flye reported.

During the Pacers' recent playoff run, Scotty's Brewhouse, a bar a few blocks from Conseco, was packed with fans.

"A lot of people gather around for sports. It's beer and what's on TV for us here," bartender Corey Morse said.

"We had a good group of people. All Pacers jerseys, yellow and blue finally. I can't imagine a bar that's been like that for a while," Morse said.

Just steps from Conseco, Mo's Steakhouse sees a lot of business on game day.

Bartender Greg Mickelson said an NBA lockout would indeed hurt their customer base.

"We've built a lot of relationships with a lot of the players and the people that run concessions. For us, it's going to be a big disappointment not to get to see those people and be a part of what's a big part of our city here," Mickelson said.

Chris Gahl, director of communications at the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association, said the 40-plus Pacers home games brings in dollars from fans in-state and out of state.

"In recent years, Chicago and Cleveland have been two (cities) that come in droves to come see. It's hard to get a ticket in their cities, so they'll come to see the Pacers based on the close proximity," Gahl said.

Gahl said there's not an exact economic figure tied to a Pacers home game, but with spending on hotels, nightlife and dining, it's considered significant.

"The average visitor spends about $270 for their time on the ground here, which equates to about two days," Gahl said.

A financial loss isn't the only concern. A renewed interest from Pacers fans is also at stake.

"We just heard about George Hill coming in and (he has) a big fan base. Now we're not even going to be able to maybe watch him next season. That's going to be a big deal," Morse said.

With a lockout hours away, optimism ran dry Wednesday night.

"I think there is probably going to be a lockout. I just hope it doesn't last too long," Mickelson said.

Players and owners will meet again Thursday, hoping to get in a late deal before the midnight deadline.