In Game
Memorial Gymnasium has earned the nickname “The Fenway Park of College Basketball” making a trip to Vanderbilt a must for college basketball enthusiasts. The arena has lots of quirks, which alone should put it on the bucket list of college basketball fans everywhere. The arena is home to a raised court, and the benches are on the baseline rather than the sideline giving the arena a unique feel.
If the uniqueness of Memorial Gym isn’t enough to entice you to visit then the way the arena gets rocking for big games should. The atmosphere is palpable when the Commodores are at their best, and everyone is up and cheering. From the student section to alumni section, you won’t find an empty seat in the house when teams like Kentucky and Tennessee come to town creating an excellent in-game atmosphere.
Finally, you’ll struggle to find a better place to spend time before or after a game in all of college basketball than downtown Nashville. Not only is there an extensive list of nearby bars and restaurants including Jed’s Sports Bar and Maggiano’s, Nashville’s famous Broadway is only a little ways away.
The mystique of Memorial Gym and the outstanding entertainment options of Nashville make a trip to Vanderbilt a must for college basketball fans everywhere.
Things to check out
Benches at the End of the Court
One of the unique features of Memorial Gymnasium is the benches are at the end of the court rather than along the side. The location of the benches gives the Commodores an incredible home court advantage and is something worth checking out for fans visiting the arena for the first time.
Raised Court
Memorial Gymnasium isone of the few arenas in the country with a raised court. The raised court provides fans with excellent sight lines and gives off the feeling that you’re watching the teams play on a stage, so enjoy the raised court when watching a game at Vanderbilt.
Vanderbilt Hall of Fame
Inside Memorial Gym, you’ll find a hallway dedicated to the best players in Vanderbilt history. The walls here show the jerseys of every men’s and women’s basketball player to play in the pros and is a must see for anyone making the trip to Vanderbilt.
Watch video
Banners
The Commodores have numerous banners hanging that honor the best players and teams in program history. Take a minute to check out the banners and remember all of Vanderbilt’s basketball accomplishments.
Commodore Mascot
Vanderbilt fans love The Commodore. He’s a big part of any Vanderbilt athletic event, and his antics are a must see for everyone in the arena, so keep your eyes peeled for him throughout the game.
Watch video
Cheer Squad
Whether it's performing cheers or waving flags, the Vanderbilt cheerleaders do an excellent job of pumping up the crowd. The cheerleaders will get you out of your seat and cheering, so join in on the chants they start.
Watch video
Fight Songs
-
Dynamite
Dynamite, Dynamite
When VANDY starts to fight.
Down the field with blood to yield,
If need be, save the shield.
If vict’ry’s won, when battle’s done,
Then VANDY’s name will rise in fame.
Win not lose,
It’s ours to choose,
And VANDY’s game will be the same.
Dynamite, Dynamite
When VANDY starts to fight!
Fight! -
Alma Mater
On the city’s western border
Reared against the sky
Proudly stands our Alma Mater
As the years roll by.Forward ever be thy watchword,
Conquer and Prevail.
Hail to thee our Alma Mater,
Vanderbilt, All Hail!Cherished by thy sons and daughters,
Thy mem’ries sweet shall throng
Round our hearts, O Alma Mater,
As we sing our song.
