Before starting our Alex G. Spanos Center review, it is important to discuss mid- and low-major basketball arenas. Most are not designed to be impressive. At many schools, these facilities are shared with students meaning function is the name of the game. Simply put, they can’t compete with major conference stadiums.
But they can be an enjoyable place to watch a college basketball game. That describes Alex G. Spanos Center, home of the Pacific Tigers. Located in Stockton, California, this arena is intriguing which is kind of surprising for anyone who knows this part of the Golden State.
That’s because Stockton is one of America’s true ass locations. Seriously, it is awful. The home of Pacific has something interesting to it that makes you forget all that. For starters, the sightlines are excellent for a venue this size and it has seating behind each basket.
If you have watched some other West Coast Conference basketball (*cough Pepperdine *cough), you know there are some high school-level gyms out there. UOP feels like a proper arena, though. Other quirks include a side being nothing but bleachers and an odd lounge area behind one basket. Not ideal, but understandable given the school’s lot in life.
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Don’t worry about where to sit at Alex G. Spanos Center unless Gonzaga is in town. There aren’t ushers and you will find plenty of available lower-level seating in the chairback section. Just wait until after tip-off and scoop up some empty seats.
Parking for most Pacific games is free and the lot is next to the arena. Getting out immediately after the game ends can be a bit of a hassle. You’re better off waiting around trying to go on the court for about 10 minutes while traffic dissipates.
There are two concession stands inside Alex G. Spanos Center and only one serves food. The line for this is comically long throughout the game, so it is best to avoid altogether. The other food kiosk has popcorn, candy and soda.
Related: Lawlor Events Center review – Nevada’s den is total dud
Alex G. Spanos Center review score: 6.5
Our Alex G. Spanos Center review may not have done a good job of explaining it, but there is something pleasant about this arena. However, it is hard to explain what that is. Most people leave thinking, “that was okay” even if they can’t tell you why.
And if it wasn’t in Stockton, you may even consider going to more games here. Apart from a truly awful location, there is no reason to avoid the venue. Sure, it’s not Rupp Arena or Cameron Indoor Stadium, but it is as interesting as UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Center.
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