Photos by Jon Hart, Stadium Journey
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29
Furst Gymnasium
2501 Amsterdam Avenue
New York, NY, 10033
Year Opened: 1985
Capacity: 1,000
The Marvelous Maccs
In New York City, a town where professional sports rule, Yeshiva University basketball is soaring. The Maccabees are currently 21-1, their only loss being their opening game, an away tilt at Occidental in California. If they stay on course, the Maccs will be in the upcoming Division 3 NCAA basketball tournament, which the Maccs made in 2018. For elite college basketball, Yeshiva basketball offers it at a more than reasonable price: Free. Right now, it’s simply one of the best deals in college sports.
Food & Beverage 0
Less is more. There are no concessions. However, fans may bring their own snacks. In the surrounding, bustling Washington Heights neighborhood, there’s no shortage of food options.
Atmosphere 4
The Maccs are streaking, and the positive vibes are flowing. It’s D3, no athletic scholarships, so the amenities aren’t what you’d find at Madison Square Garden. It’s general admission and seats are benches. Everyone’s very close to the action. There’s an overhead track that circles the court
Neighborhood 4
The Washington Heights neighborhood is on the rise, and there’s no shortage of food options, from slices to Mexican. Check out Where To East in Washington Heights for some of the best places to eat in the area.
Fans 4
The Maccs are no secret to their student body, and they turn out to root for their classmates. They’re enthusiastic, as well as polite. If there was heckling, it would be frowned upon.
Access 4
By public transportation, the Center is just a few blocks away from #1 subway stop. A ride from Penn Station and Madison Square Garden takes about 40 minutes. For drivers, you can hunt and peck for a space or pay too much for a garage. Yeshiva is close to several major thruways. Security is tight at the Center. Expect the airport treatment at the door, albeit more polite.
Return on Investment 5
Again, it’s free, so the only investment is travel and your time. If you appreciate basketball, the Maccs are definitely worth your time. It’s high-level basketball in a small place.
Extras 2
Former New York Knick, ex-Georgetown star Michael Sweetney is an assistant coach for the Maccs. Between breaks, Jewish music is played.
Final Thoughts
The Knicks are, well, the Knicks. St. John’s is rebuilding. Right now, Yeshiva is the best team in town. And it’s free, one of the best deals in college sports. Yeshiva basketball won’t be a secret for long.
Jon Hart is @ManVersusBall