DePaul University basketball games take place primarily at the Wintrust Arena, located in the heart of Chicago's McCormick Place convention center. This state-of-the-art facility opened in 2017 and provides a modern, intimate setting for Blue Demons basketball. The venue seats approximately 10,000 fans, creating an energetic atmosphere that significantly impacts the home court advantage for the Blue Demons.
Wintrust Arena: The Home of DePaul Basketball
Wintrust Arena represents a significant investment in DePaul athletics, replacing the much older McGrath-Phillips Arena. The arena's location on the Near South Side places it in close proximity to the main DePaul campus, making it easily accessible for students and alumni. Its design prioritizes fan experience with excellent sightlines and modern amenities. The facility also hosts concerts and other major events, establishing itself as a key venue for the city of Chicago.
Men's vs. Women's Schedule
While both the men's and women's basketball teams play their home games at Wintrust Arena, their schedules can differ slightly due to tournament play and conference obligations. The men's team typically competes in the Big East Conference, requiring travel to venues like Villanova and Seton Hall. The women's team also competes in the Big East, with matchups against similar conference opponents. Fans are encouraged to check the official DePaul athletics website for the specific season schedule to catch every game.
Historic Venues Before Wintrust
Before the construction of Wintrust Arena, DePaul basketball had a rich history playing in several different Chicago locations. The team formerly called McGrath-Phillips Arena home, a facility located on the Lincoln Park campus. For larger games or high-profile opponents, the program sometimes utilized the United Center, the iconic home of the NBA's Chicago Bulls. This history means that older fan generations may associate DePaul basketball with multiple venues across the city.
Travel Considerations for Away Games
When the Blue Demons compete on the road, the location varies based on the opponent and the conference schedule. Games can range from nearby Big East arenas in cities like Providence and Georgetown to neutral-site events in major metropolitan areas. For the most part, the team travels by bus or plane depending on the distance of the game. Fans often make the journey to support the team, creating a notable student section presence even in hostile environments.
Accessibility and Transportation
Getting to Wintrust Arena is straightforward thanks to Chicago's extensive public transportation system. The CTA Red Line stops at the Sox-35th station, which is a short walk from the arena. Numerous bus routes also service the area, making it a viable option for fans without personal vehicles. Street parking is available but can be expensive and limited, so using public transit is often the most efficient method of arrival.
Ticket Information and Fan Experience
Tickets for DePaul basketball games can be purchased through the official university portal or secondary markets. Student tickets are generally very affordable and encourage a lively section inside the arena. The fan experience is enhanced by the modern facilities, including concession stands and team merchandise shops. Student involvement is a cornerstone of the DePaul basketball identity, with the Blue Demons drawing strong support from their dedicated fan base.
Future of DePaul Basketball Facilities
As of now, Wintrust Arena remains the primary and definitive home for DePaul basketball. There are no announced plans to build a new on-campus arena or relocate the program. The university continues to invest in the existing facility, ensuring it remains competitive with other arenas in the Big East. This stability allows the program to focus on building success on the court while providing a consistent home for its athletes and supporters.
