Remember the roar of the crowd, the squeak of shoes on the court, and the electric anticipation hanging in the air? That is Viejas Arena. This arena is more than just a building. It is a place where memories are made.
Viejas Arena stands proudly on the San Diego State University campus. It is home to the San Diego State Aztecs basketball teams. This arena has a unique story. It was built on the site of the historic Aztec Bowl stadium.
Opened in 1997, Viejas Arena was originally known as Cox Arena. In 2009, the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians acquired the naming rights. This marked a new chapter for the arena. The arena was built into a canyon hillside. It enclosed one end of the Aztec Bowl. You can still see parts of the original stadium. Look for the cobblestone walls and concrete bleachers near the north entrance.
Before Viejas Arena, the Aztec Bowl hosted many events. President John F. Kennedy even gave a commencement address here in 1963. A ten-ton granite boulder marks the spot. It stands as a California landmark.
Viejas Arena is not just for sports. It has hosted many famous musicians. Cher, Eric Clapton, Britney Spears, and Lady Gaga have all performed here. In 2001, Billy Joel and Elton John opened their Face to Face tour with a sold-out show. The arena has a capacity of 12,414 for basketball games. It can hold even more for concerts. Center stage concerts can accommodate 12,845 fans. End stage concerts can host 12,200.
The arena also provides tasty food and drinks. You can find snacks like candy, chips, and popcorn. For something more substantial, try chili cheese nachos or a Hebrew National beef hot dog. A wide selection of beers and wines are available too. Local craft beers such as .394 Alesmith and Sculpin IPA are popular choices.
Viejas Arena has hosted significant events. The arena hosted the NCAA men’s basketball first round in 2001. It also hosted the NCAA women’s volleyball national championship the same year. It has also hosted wrestling events. WCW’s Bash at the Beach took place here in 1998. TNA Wrestling’s Bound For Glory was held here in 2013.
In 2015, the basketball court was named Steve Fisher Court. This honored the men’s basketball head coach Steve Fisher. Viejas Arena continues to evolve. San Diego State University announced renovation plans in 2024. The focus is on improving the concourse and food services. Viejas Arena is a place of constant activity. From Aztec basketball games to world-class concerts, there is always something happening. As you leave Viejas Arena, remember the energy and excitement. This arena is more than just a venue. It is a symbol of San Diego’s vibrant spirit.