Western Michigan Broncos Overview

Fast facts

League: Division I (NCAA)

Head Coach: Dwayne Stephens

Team Mascot: Buster Bronco

Year Opened: 1957

Capacity: 5421

City / State: Kalamazoo / Michigan

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Michigan MAC Trophy

Rival Team: Eastern Michigan Eagles, Central Michigan Chippewas

The Michigan MAC Trophy is awarded to the winner of the three-way rivalry between Eastern Michigan, Central Michigan, and Western Michigan. The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame created the trophy in 2005, and it gives extra bragging rights to whoever wins the season series between these three in-state rivals. There is no better time to attend a Broncos basketball game then when either Central or Eastern Michigan come to town.

Western Michigan Broncos Stadium Guide

In Game

University Arena may not be flashy, but the old school line it up and play atmosphere makes it one of the best places to take in a basketball game in the MAC. The quaint atmosphere inside University Arena is one of a kind and is one of the best things about attending a Western Michigan basketball game. The venue’s small size puts you right on top of the action and everyone on the court will be able to hear your cheers and jeers, which helps create a loud and lively atmosphere.

Western Michigan fans take full advantage of University Arena’s small size as not only do they use their proximity to the court to aid their team, they also use it to get in the heads of the opposition. No section of the stadium is better at pestering other teams or cheering on the Broncos, then The Zoo. The Zoo is full of the rowdiest and wildest WMU students, and if you’re looking to get after opponents, then The Zoo is the spot for you.

In addition to University Arena being a great place to take in a game, you’ll also find lots to do in Kalamazoo. You’ll especially be in luck if you’re looking to grab a drink before or after the game. There are lots of excellent bars near University Arena including Shakespeare Pub, which has an impressive 37 beers on tap, and University Roadhouse among others.

A Western Michigan game is a fantastic road trip for any MAC basketball fan, so start planning your trip to Kalamazoo today.

Things to check out

Banners

Hanging from the rafters of University Arena are banners honoring all of the Broncos accomplishments from over the years. The banners celebrate all of the Broncos NCAA Tournament appearances, conference championships, and even the program’s run to the Sweet Sixteen in 1976. Make sure to check out all of the banners when attending a Broncos basketball game.

Pep Band

The pep band puts on an outstanding show during the game keeping the atmosphere electrified throughout the game. Things get kicked off with the team’s entrance and only get better from there, so make sure to get to your seat early to get the most out of your Broncos game day experience.

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Buster Bronco

Buster Bronco has been the official Western Michigan mascot since 1988 and has been entertaining Broncos fans ever since. You’ll never know what Buster will do next, so keep an eye out for him throughout the game.

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The Zoo

The Zoo is the name of the student section at Western Michigan, and it’s where you’ll find the loudest and rowdiest fans on game days. Western Michigan students love to get loud and go all out to support their team. Enjoy The Zoo’s creative cheers and chants when attending a Broncos basketball game.

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Cheerleaders

Don’t miss the Western Michigan cheerleaders during your trip to University Arena. The Western Michigan cheerleaders keep the fans on their feet even when things aren’t going all that well for the Broncos and perform a variety of great routines making them a memorable part of any Broncos basketball game.

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In-Game Promotions

A Western Michigan basketball game presents many opportunities for you to walk away with some prizes as there are several promotions throughout the game. Even if you’re not lucky enough to take part, you’ll still have a fun time watching the contests from your seat.

Fight Songs

  1. Fight Song

    Fight on fight on for Western;
    take the ball, make a score,
    win the game.
    Onward for the Brown and Gold;
    Push ‘em back, push ‘em back
    bring us fame.
    Fight on fight on for Western;
    over one, over all we will reign.
    Fight, Broncos fight,
    fight with all your might.
    Western win this game!

  2. Brown and Gold

    Western Michigan alma mater

    Western we sing to you,
    Brown and Gold,
    Western we bring to you,
    faith untold.
    You challenge and inspire;
    your hope is our desire.
    We sing to you our Alma Mater,
    Brown and Gold.

Western Michigan Broncos Bars & Restaurants

  1. Rugger’s Up & Under

    Ruggers Up and Under

    A cool place to hang out with friends, play pool, darts, ping-pong, video games while having some really good drinks!

    711 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-373-1412

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  2. Old Burdick’s Bar & Grill

    Old Burdicks Bar and Grill burger

    From pub fare to gourmet burgers and fresh salads, we have a variety of menu items that will satiate almost every palate and appetite.

    100 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-343-0032

    Bar website

    american - $$

  3. Harveys on the Mall

    Harveys on the Mall pizza

    Delivering an exceptional spot for locals to cheer on their favorite team while enjoying craft beer, craft & specialty cocktails, a glass of wine and one-of-a-kind cuisine, Harvey’s on the Mall is quickly becoming the choice place for a great time in Kalamazoo.

    416 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-492-7506

    Bar website

    american - sportsbar - $$

  4. Central City Tap House

    Central City Tap House

    We take our food and beer very seriously.

    359 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-492-0100

    Bar website

    american - $$

  5. The Old Goat Tavern

    The Old Goat Tavern

    A place to enjoy a cold Michigan Microbrew, a great Burger and a level of service and quality that will keep you coming back for years to come.

    2731 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-382-6000

    Bar website

    american - $

  6. Kalamazoo Beer Exchange

    Kalamazoo Beer Exchange

    From around the world and just down the street, The Kalamazoo Beer Exchange is populated with 28 incredible draught beers at unbelievable prices.

    211 E Water St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-532-1188

    Bar website

    american - $$

  7. Rupert’s Brew House

    Ruperts Brew House

    Kalamazoo's friendliest microbrewery. Low key atmosphere during the day, nice & relaxing to have a few pints at night.

    773 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-337-9911

    Bar website

    american - $

  8. O’Duffy’s Pub

    ODuffys

    A place to meet friends, both old and new, share stories, all without the distraction of television. O'Duffy's is Kalamazoo's only real pub, family-owned, real food, real beer, and really wonderful people.

    804 W Vine St, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA

    269-381-9771

    Bar website

    european - $$

  9. Waldo’s Campus Tavern

    Waldos

    ...a tradition, on the campus of WMU since 1981

    1408 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-349-8674

    Bar website

    american - sportsbar - $

  10. Bruno’s Pizza & Restaurant

    Brunos Pizza and Restaurant

    Bruno's Pizza is a family-friendly restaurant with delicious pizzas and subs. A family-owned business and been open for over 50 years.

    1528 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-349-3229

    Bar website

    pizza - $$

  11. Cosmos Cucina

    Cosmos Cucina

    Meals are created to order, from scratch in our small kitchen in our beautiful historic building. This assures the best dining experience.

    804 W Vine St, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA

    269-344-5666

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  12. The Spirit of Kalamazoo

    The Spirit of Kalamazoo

    We are your downtown Kalamazoo spirit connection.

    154 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-382-6249

    Bar website

    cafe - $

  13. Comensoli’s Italian Bistro and Bar

    Comensolis Italian Bistro

    A casual dining experience in a Downtown Kalamazoo restaurant with fine dining service and food!

    762 W Main St, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-345-6755

    Bar website

    italian - pizza - $$

  14. Studio Grill

    Studio Grill

    Their breads are delivered daily 6 days a week from Renzemas Bakery out of Parchment, Michigan. Every menu item is made to order with love and delivered to your table with a smile.

    312 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-341-4100

    Bar website

    american - $

  15. Theo & Stacy’s Restaurant

    Theo and Stacys Restaurant

    Classic Greek and American Cuisine Prepared Fresh Daily.

    234 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-388-5025

    Bar website

    american - european - $

  16. Bimbo’s Pizza

    Bimbos Pizza

    "A treat in Michigan smuggled out of Italy"

    338 E Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-349-3134

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  17. Bell’s Eccentric Cafe

    Bells Eccentric Cafe

    We currently brew over 20 beers for distribution as well as many other small batch beers that are served at our pub in Kalamazoo, the Eccentric Cafe.

    355 E Kalamazoo Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, USA

    269-382-2338

    Bar website

    american - $$

  18. The Henderson Castle Restaurant

    The Henderson Castle Restaurant

    When you’re with us, you’ll have a royal experience.

    100 Monroe St, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-344-1827

    Bar website

    european - $$$$

  19. University Roadhouse

    University Roadhouse

    Our low prices and wide variety will bring you in. Our great food, friendly, fun environment and focus on customer service will bring you back.

    1332 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-345-7990

    Bar website

    american - $$

  20. Two Fella’s Grill

    Two Fellas

    We serve hot grilled tortilla wraps filled with great cheeses, sauces, chicken, chicken tenders, and some have tater tots!

    2730 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-492-9727

    Bar website

    american - $

  21. La Pinata

    La Pinata

    A Mexican restaurant with nice decors and great food!

    475 N Drake Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, USA

    269-382-6642

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  22. Saffron

    Saffron

    Saffron’s slowly simmered curry and freshly baked tandoori bread will delight your palate.

    1710 W Main St, Kalamazoo, MI 49006, USA

    269-381-9898

    Bar website

    asian - $$