Michigan Wolverines Overview

Fast facts

League: Division I (NCAA)

Head Coach: Juwan Howard

Team Mascot: None

Year Opened: 1967

Capacity: 12707

City / State: Ann Arbor / Michigan

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Michigan vs Michigan State

Rival Team: Michigan Wolverines

Michigan and Michigan State have a fierce rivalry that transcends sports, so it should come as little surprise that there is no love lost between these two on the hardcourt. The two Big Ten Conference rivals first met in 1909 when the Spartans defeated the Wolverines 24-16, but Michigan holds an edge in the all-time series 90-80. The rivalry has heated up in the last decade with both teams being ranked in seven of their past 14 meetings. You’ll be in for a good game when the Wolverines and Spartans square off, so get your tickets today.

Michigan vs Duke

Rival Team: Duke Blue Devils

Michigan-Duke has been an intense inter-conference rivalry since the 1960s. The two schools met annually from 1963 to 1970 and 1989 to 2002. They’ve also squared off several times in the Big Ten-ACC challenge as well as the NCAA Tournament, including the 1992 National Championship Game. You won’t want to miss it when the Blue Devils come to town as the in-game atmosphere will be palpable.

Michigan Wolverines Stadium Guide

In Game

Crisler Center underwent major renovations before the 2012 season, which have helped turn it into one of the premier college basketball venues in the nation. The remodel has made the arena brighter and better than ever, so do yourself a favor and make a trip to the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor.

Thanks to these renovations, the arena now does an outstanding job of displaying Michigan’s athletic excellence. All around the Crisler Center you’ll find tributes to all the best teams and athletes in Wolverines history. The trophy display, in particular, is spectacular and one of the few places you can see trophies like the Little Brown Jug and Heisman Trophy in person. There is also a mural of famed Wolverines basketball player Cazzie Russell on the main concourse and numerous banners hanging from the rafters.

The Michigan student section, known as Maize Rage, plays a pivotal role in making a trip to Ann Arbor an unforgettable experience. The students here influence the game with their creative chants, maize clothing, and overall enthusiasm for their team, and are a can’t miss part of any Wolverines basketball game. Although I doubt you’d be able to miss them if you tried.

Finally, no matter where you’re sitting you’ll have an incredible view of all the action on the court. Even in the nosebleeds, you’ll be able to see it all thanks to the new large screen video board that was added as part of the renovation.

You’ll have an excellent time attending a game at the Crisler Center, whose recent renovations have turned it into one of the finest basketball arenas in the country.

Things to check out

Championship and Retired Number Banners

Remember all the best teams and players in Wolverines history by checking out the championship banners hanging from the rafters. Take a minute to remember Wolverines greats like Rudy Tomjanovich and Glenn Rice when attending a Michigan basketball game.

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Trophy Display

Check out all the trophies won by the Michigan athletics teams over the years when attending a game at the Crisler Center. The trophy display allows you to remember all your favorite Michigan moments, so make sure to pay it a visit.

Kid Zone

Those of you taking your kids to the game will want to spend some time before the game at the Kid Zone. The Kid Zone is located near section 212 and is a great place for kids to get all their energy out before the game.

M Den Souvenirs

If you want to pick up a souvenir of your trip to the Crisler Center then stop by M Den Souvenirs. You’ll find a wide variety of Wolverines gear at M Den including caps, sweatshirts, jerseys, and more.

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Maize Rage

Maize Rage is the name of the Michigan’s 2,600 fan student section. The student section requires everyone wear maize, a basketball jersey, or a costume, and is a big part of what makes attending a Michigan basketball game a special experience. If you want to join the loudest section in the arena, then get tickets in or near the Maize Rage.

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“I Can’t Turn You Loose” by Otis Redding

During timeouts, the Wolverines student section dances to The Blues Brothers’ version of Otis Redding’s “I Can’t Turn You Loose.” When you hear the song start dancing, so you can join in on the fun.

Rage Page

Those of you sitting in the student section will want to get your copy of the Rage Page before the game so you can learn more about the opposition. The Rage Page is created by the Maize Rage and is an excellent way to stay caught up on the Wolverines and their opponents.

Pep Band

The Michigan pep band provides great in-game entertainment and the tuba sections dancing to the William Tell Overture is particularly entertaining. Enjoy the Michigan band when attending a Wolverines basketball game.

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Fight Songs

  1. Hail to the Victors

    One of the most iconic fight song in all of college sports. You’ll never forget this song after just one game at the Crisler Center. There is also a customary fist pump at every “HAIL” and 2 fist pumps at “GO BLUE” in the song that the whole crowd will do as the band plays this song.

    Now for a cheer they are here,
    triumphant!
    Here they come with banners flying,
    In stalwart step they’re nighing,
    With shouts of vict’ry crying,
    We hurrah, hurrah, we greet you now,
    Hail!

    Far we their praises sing
    For the glory and fame they’ve bro’t us
    Loud let the bells them ring
    For here they come with banners flying
    Far we their praises tell
    For the glory and fame they’ve bro’t us
    Loud let the bells them ring
    For here they come with banners flying
    Here they come, Hurrah!

    Hail! to the victors valiant
    Hail! to the conqu’ring heroes
    Hail! Hail! to Michigan
    the leaders and best
    Hail! to the victors valiant
    Hail! to the conqu’ring heroes
    Hail! Hail! to Michigan,
    the champions of the West!

    We cheer them again
    We cheer and cheer again
    For Michigan, we cheer for Michigan
    We cheer with might and main
    We cheer, cheer, cheer
    With might and main we cheer!

    Hail! to the victors valiant
    Hail! to the conqu’ring heroes
    Hail! Hail! to Michigan,
    the champions of the West!

  2. Let's Go Blue!

    Probably the 2nd most frequent tradition behind only the fight song, this quick chant starts with either the band or a random fan with a cowbell, playing a beat and the crowd answers by chanting “Let’s Go Blue!” in a similar way for a few repetitions.

    Let’s go blue!

    *Band plays*

    Let’s go blue!

    *Band play*

    Let’s go blue!

    *Band plays*

    Let’s go blue!

  3. It’s great to be a Michigan Wolverine

    Used in intermissions or other stoppages in play, the crowd will sing “It’s great, to be, a Michigan Wolverine”

    It’s great, to be, a Michigan Wolverine

    It’s great, to be, a Michigan Wolverine

    It’s great, to be, a Michigan Wolverine

  4. Maize Rage Chants

    The Maize Rage has several chants they do at every game. Join in on these chants to get into the Wolverines game day spirit and help spur on your team.

    Offensive chants

    Here we go Michigan, here we go! (clap clap)

    Let’s Go Michigan! (clap clap, clap clap clap)

    Go Blue, Go! (clap clap clap)

    Go Blue! (clap clap)

    Let’s Go Blue! (clap)

    Defensive Chants

    Popcorn (Jump up and down while screaming OHHHH!!)

    De-fense! (clap clap)

    Bounce! Bounce! Pass! (Yell “bounce” when the opposition dribbles, and “pass” when they pass). Note: This chant is only used in blowouts.

    When Opposition Shoots Free-Throws

    Go… Blue… chant with pep band

    You will miss! / You will miss again!

    You wear Ugg boots!

    Sing The Victors (listen for the “1, 2, you know what to do!”)

    Listen to the center section for other improvised chants

Michigan Wolverines Bars & Restaurants

  1. Brown Jug

    Bar Bordertown Grill

    Along with the brews, their bar features a full food menu with most items named after well-known Wolverine alumni.

    1204 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  2. Conor O’Neill’s

    The Fat Frogg Bar and Grill

    Traditional Irish pub built with imported wood & stone features regular trivia nights & live music.

    318 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    european - $$

  3. Dominick’s

    Wine

    Cozy spot for traditional Italian eats & pizza with cocktails in Mason jars & a patio with fountain.

    812 Monroe St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  4. Bill’s Beer Garden

    bar drink

    Seasonal beer courtyard features local craft brews & wine in the evenings with picnic table seating.

    218 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    american - $

  5. The Ravens Club

    Octopus

    Choice speakeasy-style joint for farm-to-fork American-fare small plates & old-fashioned cocktails.

    207 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  6. Heidelberg

    German Food

    It is much more than a German restaurant – it’s actually three floors of dining, drinking, dancing, and entertainment!

    215 N Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    european - $$

  7. Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery

    The Fat Frogg Bar and Grill

    Warm brewpub offers house craft beers paired with BBQ, smoked meats & biscuits amid live music.

    207 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    bbq - $$

  8. Good Time Charley’s

    beer glass

    Casual indoor-outdoor canteen with multiple TVs, daily specials, karaoke & trivia nights.

    1140 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  9. Alley Bar

    Skewers Bar Grill Ts Lounge

    Only serves the the freshest and coldest cocktails anyone deserves.

    112 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  10. Grizzly Peak Brewing Company

    Owlz Pub Sand Trap Scorpions Bar Grill

    Grizzly Peak Brewing Company, Ann Arbor’s landmark brewpub and premier place students and friends to gather.

    120 W Washington St #1, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  11. Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery

    cafe coffee machine

    Local chain known for truffle fries serves upscale pub fare & pints of rustic craft beer.

    311 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    cafe - $$

  12. Ashley’s

    Bootys Wings Burgers and Beer

    Busy Irish pub offers a jumbo beer list, microbrews, scotch aplenty & eclectic grub.

    338 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    european - $$

  13. Score Keepers

    burger McGrearys Restaurant Celestial Cafe

    Boisterous hangout featuring draft brews, American plates & many sports TVs, plus DJs & dancing.

    310 Maynard St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $

  14. Rick’s American Cafe

    beer

    The best dance floor in Ann Arbor. A favorite of many Wolverines.

    611 Church St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    american - $$

  15. Blue Leprechaun

    beer Billy Jacks Wing Draft Shack Roost Great American Pub

    A savory menu of appetizers, salads and main dishes to pair with a good drink and good company.

    Ann Arbor Plaza, 1220 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    Bar website

    european - sportsbar - $$

  16. Isalita

    Isalita

    Mexican standards served in a rustic space with painted-brick walls & a festive streetside patio.

    Handicraft Building, 341 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734.213.7400

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  17. No Thai!

    NoThai

    Local chain spot doles out classic menu of Thai food & lets diners choose their level of spiciness.

    1300 S University Ave #3, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-369-2604

    Bar website

    asian - $$

  18. Tios Mexican Cafe and Tequila Bar

    TiosAnnArbor

    Mexican joint offers late-night eats, a massive hot sauce collection & homemade salsa.

    401 E Liberty St #2, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-761-6650

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  19. Panchero’s Mexican Grill

    Panchers

    Burritos, tacos & quesadillas are made with freshly pressed tortillas at this Mexican chain outpost.

    1208 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-996-9580

    Bar website

    mexican - $

  20. Maize and Blue Deli

    Gus Bar & Grill Sandwich Fries Pioneer Diner Sandwich Paul Reveres Family Restaurant Sandwich Wild Magnolia Sandwich

    One of the more famous sandwich joint and a definite must-try.

    1329 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-996-0009

    Bar website

    american - $$

  21. Angelo’s

    Exit 62 Truck Stop and Restaurant Breakfast Overlook Restaurant Breakfast Murphys Loft Breakfast Eggs Ken Marys Sunrise Family Restaurant

    Family-run eatery serves diner-style breakfasts & light lunch, plus bread baked daily in-house.

    1100 Catherine St #1, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-761-8996

    Bar website

    american - $$

  22. Pizza House

    Pizza House Ann Arbor

    Spacious eatery with comfy booths & fancy tile work offers Italian fare & late-night bites.

    618 Church St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-995-5095

    Bar website

    pizza - $$

  23. BurgerFi

    Burger Fi Ann Arbor

    Stylish, eco-minded chain serving grass-fed beef burgers, plus hot dogs, craft beer & wine.

    18801 Traditions Dr, Northville, MI 48168, USA

    734-929-5605

    Bar website

    american - $$

  24. The Fleetwood Diner

    Fleetwood Diner MSU

    Retro-style venue dishing American classics including its signature "hippie hash" 24/7.

    300 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-995-5502

    Bar website

    american - $

  25. BTB Burrito

    BTB Burrito Ann Arbor

    Monster portions, ridiculous speed, and dedication to our customers– that’s what makes them Ann Arbor’s favorite.

    1140 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-222-4822

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  26. Slurping Turtle

    Slurping Turtle Ann Arbor

    Industrial-chic Japanese choice with long communal tables for tapas, noodles & sushi, plus sake.

    608 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-887-6868

    Bar website

    asian - $$

  27. Fritas Batidos

    Fritas Batidos Ann Arbor

    Stark white space with picnic table seating serves colorful cuban street food & tropical cocktails.

    117 W Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-761-2882

    Bar website

    american - $

  28. MANI Osteria & Bar

    MANIOsteria and Bar Ann Arbor

    Wood-oven pizza & Italian small plates plus bar with old-world wines & local beer in an open setup.

    Handicraft Building, 341 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-769-6700

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  29. Zingerman’s Delicatessen

    Zingermans Deli Ann Arbor

    Locals line up for generous deli sandwiches at this funky, longtime market with specialty groceries.

    422 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-663-3354

    Bar website

    american - $$

  30. HopCat

    Hop Cat Ann Arbor

    Always what you deserve at the end of a stressful day.

    311 Maynard St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-436-2875

    Bar website

    american - $$

  31. Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger

    Blimpy Burger Ann Arbor

    Whether you opt for a starter-sized double or you go right for the gut-busting quintuple, you will not find a more unique or tasty burger experience.

    304 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-663-4590

    Bar website

    american - $

  32. NY Pizza Depot

    New York Pizza Depot Ann Arbor

    Casual pizzeria known for its New York & Chicago-style pies delivers classic chow until late-night.

    605 E William St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

    734-669 6973

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  33. Hello Faz Pizza

    Hello Faz Pizza Ann Arbor

    Unassuming pizzeria offering specialty pies, including deep-dish varieties, plus chicken wings.

    2259 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA

    734-741-7777

    Bar website

    pizza - $$