Crisler Center

Official Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder

There's a new name of the arena that is home to Michigan basketball in Ann Arbor. Opened as Crisler Arena in 1967, it is now known as the Crisler Center, as renovations continue through 2012. New seating has been completed, including railing in the aisles, and upgraded views for handicap seating, but the continued gate closures may cause some delays for fans entering Crisler Center for the 2011-2012 season.

Crisler Center is part of a great sports complex which includes iconic Michigan Stadium, and the wonderful Yost Arena. A trip to a Michigan basketball game seems to be getting better each year, and the renovations should only help to aid the rise of this venue as a top-notch facility for Big Ten, and college basketball fans.

Food & Beverage    3

One area that I would love to see "renovated" is the food selection at Crisler Center. There is enough to get you through the game, but nothing that seems at all special. Additionally, the prices seem a tad on the high side, making the lack of selection all the more disappointing.

Your best option is the all-beef hot dog ($4), as the brat ($6) is not worth the extra cost in comparison. You can also grab a Papa John's slice of pizza ($5), or the basic popcorn, pretzel, or nachos ($6).

Coca-Cola is the soda provider at Crisler Center. You can find a 20-ounce bottle for $4, or a 32-ounce soda in a souvenir cup for $6. For me, the place to find my game snacks was the roasted nut stand. I picked up a bag of roasted almonds and some gummy butterflies for $6 each on my latest visit. Both fit the menu well as they are also overpriced, but at least they are a couple of items that add to the overall happiness of this reviewer.

Atmosphere    4

The most significant renovation at the Crisler Center occurred in 2001 when the student section was placed behind the benches on bleacher seating. Nothing elevates a college basketball venue faster than a well-placed and vocal student section.

There is also a fairly significant history here in the Crisler Center. Known as the House that Cazzie built due to the success during the Cazzie Russell era that saw the team to three consecutive Big Ten Championships and two Final Four appearances (1964 & 1965). In all, Michigan has made appearances in 6 Final Fours, although you'll only find banners honoring the first four appearances, as the 1992 and 1993 seasons have been forfeited due to NCAA sanctions. You will also be able to sit beneath a National Championship banner, earned in 1989 by the likes of Glenn Rice, Rumeal Robinson, Terry Mills, and Loy Vaught.

Walk the concourse, and you'll find several displays dedicated to the accomplishments of many sports, including the history of the basketball team.

Once you find your seat, you can be sure to have a spot with a chairback, unless you are in the student section. There will be a cupholder, but less than average legroom. Shoot for sections 203-207 for the best view of the action from above, with views of both benches.

Neighborhood    5

Ann Arbor is one of those truly great college towns. Downtown is about a mile walk from Crisler Center, which isn't real convenient, but the variety in town certainly makes up for any damage to your feet. If you're coming from the south and want to avoid the downtown area, then I would recommend Bagger Dave's for their burgers and good local beer selection. Their burgers are like Five Guys, but with less grease, more toppings, and local beer.

Downtown there are several options, and I would recommend any listed on the right side of the page. Ashley's is a great bar with more beers than you could drink even if you had season tickets. Blue Tractor has amazing sandwiches, and their own microbrews. Gratzi has wonderful Italian food. Zingerman's is the best deli you'll ever encounter in your life. Frita Batidos is a unique Cuban-inspired restaurant. And don't forget the Cupcake Station for a wonderful dessert stop. I would recommend parking near downtown and walking if you're willing to do so. If not, you can find parking for $10 or $20 closer to Crisler Center.

Fans    4

The student section has steadily improved as the team continues to improve under Coach John Beilein. The University has placed them in a place where they can be a factor, and they are beginning to do just that. They stand the entire game; jumping, chanting, and cheering. I was impressed when I attended a mid-December game against a lesser opponent when I saw the student section filled an hour before tip-off. They stayed the whole game even though the outcome was never in question.

The alumni and other fans also show their support and intelligence. There will be a healthy smattering of applause for a simple move like the point guard pulling out the ball to reset mid-possession.

There is no doubt that Michigan has one of the best pep bands that you'll encounter, and they add an element of excitement throughout the game. The sound system at Crisler Center helps to distribute the band's tunes throughout the arena.

Access    3

Construction on the roads during the 2011-2012 season, and the closing of two gates during renovations is a temporary issue when it comes to access to the Crisler Center. The closest parking will cost you $20, or for $10 you can park at nearby Ann Arbor Pioneer High School, which is just a couple of blocks away from the arena.

If you feel like a healthy walk, then you can also park downtown for much cheaper. The lot at Fifth & William is a good option. After the game, you should be able to leave the arena and get back to I-94 with only minimal traffic.

Inside the arena, you'll find mostly wide concourses. There is just the single concourse with access to the 100 and 200 levels below or above once you move into the arena.

Restrooms are a little small, and there is a possibility of some lines during peak times, so you may want to sneak out a little early before halftime if you want to avoid a line.

Return on Investment    3

Tickets in the upper section on the ends start at $15. I would suggest spending $5 more to get a seat on the upper sides. This doesn't feel like a bargain, but it still is fairly reasonable for a good Big Ten basketball game. Tickets may be difficult to get from the school once the Big Ten season begins, so you will want to plan ahead if possible. If not, you can also find tickets from online ticket resellers, or even scalpers near the corner of Main and Stadium before the game.

With the price of close parking, and concessions, the current overall cost is a little high for the experience. If you park downtown, and skip the concessions in the arena, then you will feel like you have a good value.

Extras    4

The Michigan pep band and the student section, known as the Maize Rage, are worth a extra points, as they are a key to making the experience enjoyable.

I also award an extra point for the opportunity to sit beneath a National Championship banner.

Final extra point for what the Crisler Center will be when the renovations are complete. This venue will continue to become closer to the top tier in the Big Ten in years to come.

Final Thoughts

Michigan basketball is on the rise, and a trip to Crisler Center should be in the top half of your list if you want to travel to the basketball arenas of the Big Ten.