MEMORIAL GYMNASIUM EXPERIENCE:
Memorial Gymnasium is an indoor multi-purpose arena on the Vanderbilt University campus in Nashville, Tennessee. The arena is primarily home to the Vanderbilt Commodores men’s and women’s basketball teams. Known commonly as Municipal Gym and simply Municipal, the arena was dedicated in honor of Vanderbilt students and alumni killed in World War II. Visitors to Memorial Gymnasium can’t help but notice the unique baseline bench positions and the raised floor that sits above some sections of the crowd like a stage.
Opened in 1952 and originally known as Municipal Gymnasium, Memorial Gymnasium has a seating capacity of more than 14,000. The arena has become known for “Municipal Magic” - a legendary home court advantage likely helped by capacity crowds, feverish fan support, and the unique characteristics of the building itself. Municipal Gymnasium has helped the Commodores win a number of games where they were written off as distant underdogs. In addition to Vanderbilt games, the arena has also become the host to games between cross-town rivals Lipscomb and Belmont Universities in what’s come to be known as “the Battle of the Boulevard.”
Memorial Gymnasium provides fans with what is possibly the most distinctive experience in all of college basketball. Visiting teams have a tough time getting used to following the action from benches at the end of the court. Fans on the 2nd balcony level with its low ceilings get the odd experience of watching what looks like a Cinemascope basketball movie. And don’t forget about the noise of the crowd and the talent of the players competing in the tough as nails SEC. Buy Memorial Gymnasium tickets today and don’t miss an event at Memorial Stadium!