University of Dayton Arena: SeatGeek's guide to Flyers basketball and major events in Dayton

University of Dayton Arena is one of the most respected college basketball venues in the country. Located on the University of Dayton campus in Dayton, Ohio, the arena is best known as the home of the Dayton Flyers men’s basketball team and as a longtime host of NCAA Tournament games. With its electric atmosphere, passionate fan base, and history of postseason moments, UD Arena delivers an unforgettable live-event experience.

Whether you're attending a high-stakes Atlantic 10 matchup or a nationally televised tournament game, this venue is a centerpiece of college basketball in the Midwest.

A historic college basketball venue

Opened in 1969, University of Dayton Arena has built a national reputation over decades of memorable games. The arena seats approximately 13,400 fans, making it one of the larger on-campus basketball arenas in the country.

It has hosted more NCAA Tournament games than any other venue, including the popular “First Four” matchups that kick off March Madness each year. This tradition has helped solidify Dayton’s identity as a tournament city and made UD Arena a staple of postseason college basketball.

Over time, renovations have modernized the facility while maintaining the intimate and intense atmosphere that fans love.

Home of the Dayton Flyers

The arena serves as the home court for the Dayton Flyers, who compete in NCAA Division I as members of the Atlantic 10 Conference (A-10).

A powerful home-court advantage

UD Arena is widely known for its energetic crowds. Flyers fans consistently pack the building, creating a loud and intimidating environment for visiting teams. Sellout crowds are common during conference play, rivalry games, and marquee non-conference matchups.

The student section brings coordinated chants and nonstop energy, while alumni and longtime supporters add to the tradition-rich atmosphere. When the Flyers go on a scoring run, the noise level inside the arena can be overwhelming.

NCAA Tournament and major events

Beyond regular-season Flyers basketball, University of Dayton Arena plays a major role in the NCAA Tournament.

March Madness tradition

Each year, the arena hosts the “First Four” games, officially launching the NCAA Tournament. These nationally televised matchups draw fans from across the country and give Dayton a spotlight in the college basketball world.

In addition to basketball, the venue has hosted:

• Concerts and touring performances

• Family entertainment shows

• High school basketball championships

• Community and university events

Its flexible floor configuration allows for a wide range of event setups.

Seating and viewing experience

UD Arena’s bowl-style design ensures strong sightlines throughout the venue. With seating wrapping fully around the court, fans stay connected to the action no matter where they sit.

Choosing your seats

• Lower-level seats place you close to the court for an immersive experience.

• Center-court sections offer balanced views of both baskets and team benches.

• Baseline seating is perfect for fans who love high-energy plays at the rim.

• Upper-level sections provide a full-court perspective and a great view of game flow.

Even upper-level seats maintain solid visibility thanks to the arena’s thoughtful design and steep seating angles.

Location and accessibility

University of Dayton Arena is located just south of downtown Dayton, making it easily accessible from Interstate 75 and other major roadways. Its central location makes it convenient for fans traveling from Cincinnati, Columbus, or other parts of Ohio.

Parking and arrival tips

The arena features large surrounding parking lots, which make game-day access relatively straightforward. For high-demand games — especially NCAA Tournament contests — arriving early is highly recommended.

Fans often gather before games to enjoy the pregame atmosphere and avoid last-minute congestion. Ride-sharing services are also commonly used during major events.

Concessions and amenities

Inside the arena, visitors can find a variety of food and beverage options, including classic game-day favorites and regional specialties. Merchandise stands offer Dayton Flyers apparel and tournament gear during postseason play.

Recent renovations have improved concourse flow, restroom facilities, and premium seating areas, enhancing comfort while preserving the venue’s classic basketball feel.

High-demand games and events

Ticket demand typically increases for:

• Atlantic 10 conference games

• Rivalry matchups

• Nationally ranked opponents

• NCAA Tournament “First Four” games

• Special themed nights and promotions

Planning ahead for these events can help fans secure preferred seating and enjoy a smoother game-day experience.

Why fans love UD Arena

University of Dayton Arena combines history, passion, and big-stage moments. It’s a place where sellout crowds are the norm, March Madness begins each year, and the Flyers consistently enjoy one of the strongest home-court advantages in college basketball.

For students, it’s a heartbeat of campus life. For alumni, it’s a source of pride and tradition. For visiting fans, it’s a chance to experience one of the most respected arenas in the sport.

From early-season tipoffs to tournament drama, UD Arena continues to host unforgettable basketball moments in Dayton, Ohio. Whether you’re cheering for the Flyers or attending a nationally significant event, the energy inside the building makes every visit memorable.