The Roof vs. Agganis Arena - Does it Matter?

by Jeff Cohen

Since 1972, the Boston University men's basketball team has called Case Gymnasium, a.k.a. The Roof, its home.  Seating 1,800 fans, the facility's acoustics - the low ceiling, the condensed walls - trap the chants and the cheering of the BU fans to create a distinct home-court advantage.

Opening in 2005, Agganis Arena is a state-of-the-art facility.  The newer venue boasts a jumbotron, arena-spanning LCD screens, a wraparound concourse where fans can watch the game while ordering their favorite snacks, and can fit up to 7,200 fans.  These amenities, in addition to the rabid BU fan base, create a distinct home-court advantage. 

Yes, Boston University men's basketball boasts two home courts.  But which is the "real" home court?  The Roof still hosts more games, hosting seven games this coming season while Agganis Arena hosts six.  However, Agganis Arena is slowly increasing its percentage of home games hosted, and also hosts the more marquee matchups, including the home opener against George Washington University on Tuesday, November 17.

Terriers senior guard Tyler Morris ('10) says both places look the same to him.

"The hoops are ten feet [high], the free throw line is fifteen feet [from the basket], they have the same men's and women's three-point lines in there.  It's a basketball court.  You still have to play," the senior quad-captain said.  It makes no difference if there's 7,000 seats in the stands or 1,800 [at The Roof], it makes no difference.  It's still basketball at the end of the day."

Meanwhile, fellow senior guard Carlos Strong ('10) has a very different opinion on the matter.

"Agganis is on a [completely different] level," Strong said.  "It's a big, open arena.  It's a different feel than [The Roof].  This is a good feel [at the Roof] when you have this place rockin,' and playing with your teammates is awesome.  But when you get in [Agganis] and you get the place rockin,' it's a [completely different] feel.  A [completely different] level.  It's awesome.  It's an awesome feeling." 

Although The Roof and Agganis Arena contrast greatly, both offer the same guarantee: an exciting environment to watch the Boston University men's basketball team play for the chance to compete in the NCAA Tournament.