How Bulldogs’ return to Selland Arena impacts Downtown Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – It’s official, Fresno State Bulldogs men’s basketball will be playing at Downtown Fresno’s Selland Arena for the first time since 2009.

There, they will face off against CSU Bakersfield on Nov. 30.

“We’re inviting everyone, fans, families, and former players, to come back downtown, be part of an afternoon of history, heritage, and hometown pride. Let’s pack Selland Arena again and remind everyone what the Red Wave is all about,” announced Fresno State Athletic Director Garrett Klassy.

Selland Arena served as the primary home for Bulldogs hoops from 1966 to 2003 — some of that during the time of legendary coach Boyd Grant, when the ‘Dogs won the 1983 NIT National Championship, and during the tenure of the one and only Jerry Tarkanian, who led Fresno State to six straight 20-win seasons in his seven seasons at the school.

Now, as they will be back in their historic home for the first time in 16 years, the hope is it’s a win not just for the team, but for the fans, and Downtown Fresno.

“We want to build upon the momentum we already have right here in Downtown Fresno,” said Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. “Part of that plan is Bulldog basketball. So, let’s create that excitement even if it’s for just one night.”

Still, even one night is another huge draw for downtown businesses like in the nearby Brewery District.

Tioga-Sequoia has already committed to partnering with Fresno State for a pregame party. As a property owner there says, bringing in more people is crucial.

“Everything that we are able to do downtown that is fun and positive is a benefit to the entire city,” said Nora Monaco, a property owner in the Brewery District. “Having basketball at Selland Arena — that’s an amazing thing, and I’m really pleased to hear it.”

Mayor Dyer says the city continues to invest in Selland Arena, including approving a new $605,000 scoreboard this week.

He says Fresno State is welcome to use it anytime.

And Monaco hopes they do.

“We have visitors coming from Bakersfield and Visalia, and all over the area, to come to these events. So, it not only helps the people in Fresno, but it brings other people and other interests to Fresno,” Monaco shared.

While there’s nothing set in stone about future Bulldog games in Selland Arena, for now, Bulldogs Head Coach Vance Walberg says he would love to bring the team back downtown every year.