The rivalry between Syracuse and UConn began in 1956. However, it didn’t peak until both teams entered the Big East in 1979. From 1979 to 2013, the UConn-Syracuse rivalry was one of the best in the Big East producing many incredible matchups including a six overtime thrill in the 2009 Big East Tournament. The rivalry may have dissipated a bit since the original Big East disbanded, but you’ll still be in for a treat when attending a UConn-Syracuse game.
UConn Huskies vs Georgetown Hoyas
Rival Team: Georgetown Hoyas
The rivalry between the Huskies and the Hoyas dates back to 1958. However, things didn’t really heat up until the two schools became members of the Big East in 1979. The rivalry was always one of the best in the Big East, and even with UConn’s departure in 2013, the matchups between these two are still intense. Make sure to get tickets when Georgetown is in town as there is lots of bad blood between these two rivals.
Connecticut Huskies Stadium Guide
In Game
Whether you see the Huskies play at Gampel Pavilion or the XL Center, you’ll have a great time attending a UConn basketball game. UConn has one of the best basketball programs in both the men’s and women’s game, and the fans here have a lot of pride in their teams. Huskies fans show up to every game in large numbers ready to cheer on their team to victory, so come prepared to cheer along with them or go home disappointed.
The fans aren’t the only ones who make attending a Huskies basketball game an incredible experience. As mentioned, both teams will put on quite a show and can hang with the best of them. The dance and cheer teams, as well as the pep band, also create a fun in-game atmosphere that will leave you wanting to come back soon.
The fact the Huskies play at two venues means you’ll want to attend at least two UConn basketball games. Gampel Pavilion provides an excellent smaller venue that puts you right on top of the action. The XL Center, on the other hand, features a full array of amenities you won’t find at Gampel Pavilion, so either way, you can’t go wrong attending a UConn game.
When it comes to food and drinks, Hartford is home to a wide variety of options and if you’re attending a game in Storrs then check out local favorites like Randy’s Wooster Street Pizza Shop or Geno’s.
A UConn basketball game is a must for any college hoops fan and a great chance to see some of the best players in men’s and women’s college basketball.
UConn has several banners hanging up in Gampel Pavilion celebrating the Huskies men’s and women’s basketball programs many accomplishments. The basketball programs’ tournament appearances are listed on the wall, and banners celebrating both programs national championships and legendary coaches are hanging up as well. Make sure to take it all in when attending a game at Gampel Pavilion.
Stop by the husky statue before the game. The statue outside of Gampel Pavilion offers an excellent photo op and is a great way to let fans know that they’re at the home of the Huskies.
No trip to Storrs is complete without checking out the J. Robert Donnelly Husky Heritage Sports Museum. The museum is a couple of minutes from Gampel Pavilion, and is home to all kinds of exhibits dedicated to UConn’s incredible athletics history.
Hanging from the rafters of the XL Center are banners honoring the accomplishments of the UConn Huskies, Hartford Whalers, and Hartford Wolf Pack. The banners do a great job commemorating the greatest moments in each of these team’s history, so check them out when taking in a game at the XL Center.
If you want to grab a drink at a Huskies basketball game, then you’ll be in luck. The XL Center is off campus, so you’ll be able to buy a beer. The bar area inside the XL Center is a great place to grab a drink while taking in some Huskies hoops action
Jonathan the Husky
You can spot both the live and costumed versions of Jonathan the Husky at UConn basketball games. They both do a great job interacting with fans and entertaining the crowd, so don’t miss them attending a Huskies basketball game.
When the Huskies go on a run, UConn super fan Big Red appears on the scoreboard and leads everyone in the UConn cheer. Come prepared to get loud and join Big Red in the cheer during your visit to UConn.
There’s no better way to kick off the start of basketball season than attending First Night. First Night officially starts the basketball season and is an excellent opportunity to see the UConn men’s and women’s basketball teams before games begin, so don’t miss it.
Throughout the game, the crowd can be heard spelling out UCONN in excitement. Everyone gets into the chant as it’s a great way for everyone to let out their excitement during the game.
U-C-O-N-N
U-C-O-N-N
U-C-O-N-N
UConn Husky
Official fight song
U – Conn Husky, symbol of might to the foe.
Fight, fight Connecticut, It’s vict’ry, Let’s go.
Connecticut U – Conn Husky,
vict’ry again for the White and Blue
So go – go – go Connecticut, Connecticut U.
C – O – N – N – E – C – T – I – C – U – T
Connecticut, Connecticut Husky, Connecticut Husky
Connecticut C – O – N – N – U! Fight! (Repeat)
Alma Mater
Once more, as we gather today,
To sing our Alma Mater’s praise,
And join in the fellowship strong,
Which inspires our college days.
We’re backing our teams in the strife
Cheering them to victory!
And Pledge anew to old Connecticut,
Our steadfast spirit of loyalty.
(Chorus)
Connecticut, Connecticut,
Thy sons and daughters true
Unite to honor thy name,
Our fairest White and Blue.
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