NCAA Basketball: 30 best arena atmospheres in college hoops

CHAPEL HILL, NC - FEBRUARY 20: North Carolina Tar Heels fans storm the court after a win over the Duke Blue Devils during their game at the Dean Smith Center on February 20, 2014 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. North Carolina won 74-66. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

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AMES, IA – DECEMBER 10: Iowa State Cyclones fans celebrate. (Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images) /

16. Iowa State Cyclones

Location: Hilton Coliseum (14,356) in Ames, IA

Hilton Magic. Enough said. In actuality, though, that is what makes this NCAA basketball atmosphere so special. Regardless of whether or not it is true or myth, the idea that there are “magical” wins that happen in a building can get in the head of opponents and create reality. In the case of Hilton Coliseum, there are few places as magical.

Over the years, the Iowa State Cyclones have managed to come away with improbable comebacks and fantastic upsets under the effects of “Hilton Magic.” Possibly the most recent memorable moment within the concrete walls of the building was the massive 21-point comeback victory over Oklahoma in 2015. Over the last 10 years, Iowa State holds a 134-36 (.788) record at home but that includes going just 9-7 this past season. With a 22-16 record at Hilton against top-25 teams over this span, it is clear the magic really exists.

As far as the architecture of the building, Hilton Coliseum is built for noise. With concrete walls and steel doors, the arena poses a threat for ear damage with every game. It also doesn’t hurt the atmosphere to have student sections cover both baselines.

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