Everyone says this is a baseball and hockey town, but the Billikens' home seats 20,000 and can really rock when given a reason. I can't imagine how loud it was in there last Saturday against Cincinnati. Naturally, the Billikens upset the Bearcats. Stanford is just better than most. The Ducks feast off noise from three balconies that vibrate from the deafening cheers of 10,000.
Students sitting at courtside only add to the roaring atmosphere.
The arena itself isn't intimidating. The fans are docile compared to others nationally. But the fear for opponents comes from a lack of success, from knowing how many teams have walked into Salt Lake City the past five years with hope and walked out on the losing end. But what the arena lacks in aesthetic appeal, it makes up for with a knowledgeable fan base that consistently fills the 10,132 seats. Fresno State fans have a certain feel for the game.