Made the short drive from Dallas for game 1 of the 2012 playoffs to see the Mavs take on the Thunder. We stayed at the Sheraton across the street from the arena, so far, so good. Bricktown had lots to do, Toby Keith even has a bar/grill in the area.
We sat in row D of section 217. I would have preferred row A so that all of the fan movement would have been behind us. Our section was numbered very strangely. Why the rows go from A-E and then 1-4 is beyond me but you definitely want the lettered rows in section 217. I would sit in 217 again for a game but wouldn't go out of my way to purchase those seats specifically. You already know where the best seats are in an NBA arena; front row center.
The ushers were very laid back and let us venture down next to the court during warmups to take photos of the Mavs players. If you're a fan of the visiting team, I highly suggest you take advantage of that opportunity and bring your camera!