Coleman Coliseum

Capacity: 15,316

Home Teams: Alabama Crimson Tide (NCAA College Basketball)

Coleman Coliseum Events

Located in the midst of the University of Alabama’s sprawling complex of athletic facilities in Tuscaloosa, Coleman Coliseum has been home to the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s and women’s basketball teams, and women’s gymnastics team, since it opened in 1968. Known for the dramatic stripes of its ceiling (which are actually strips of acoustic tiles), the facility underwent major renovations in 2005 to update the building and expand its capacity. This was done partially in response to a decline in concerts and other such events at Coleman Coliseum due to its aging infrastructure, which seems to have met with some success. The major draw at Coleman Coliseum, however, remains the home games of its Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team, who have increasingly emerged on the scene as a force to be reckoned with after many decades playing second fiddle to the powerful Alabama Crimson Tide football team. In fact, it was actually a football coach, the renowned Paul “Bear” Bryant, who kickstarted the turnaround of Alabama’s basketball program by asking his friend Paul Rupp, coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, for help. Rupp put him in touch with C.M. Newton, who soon made a big difference, leading the Crimson Tide to three consecutive conference titles (1974-1976) as well as the team’s first two appearances in the NCAA postseason March Madness tournament, the second of which saw them progress to the Sweet 16. The Crimson Tide have scarcely looked back in the decades since, becoming a consistent contender in the Southeastern Conference, qualifying for 22 more March Madness tournaments, appearing in the Sweet 16 on 9 more occasions, and even pushing through to Elite 8 in 2004, where they lost 87-71 to the high-powered UConn Huskies (who went on to win the title). Crimson Tide alumni have gone on to star in the NBA, including past NBA players like Robert Horry and Latrell Sprewell as well as an excellent current crop of players like Collin Sexton, Brandon Miller, and Noah Clowney. As at Alabama football games, the Crimson Tide basketball team are cheered on by legions of loyal fans, including the wild “Crimson Chaos” student supporters group and their “Roll Tide” cheer that buoyed the team to an undefeated 19-0 home record in 2010-11. As well as Crimson Tide basketball games, Coleman Coliseum has hosted many other big events, including a presidential address by Ronald Reagan, touring Broadway musical shows, and concerts by such legendary performers as Elvis Presley, Led Zeppelin, and the Grateful Dead. Hungry visitors to Coleman Coliseum will find the concessions overflowing with tasty snacks such as nachos, pizza, and pretzels, along with plenty of cold beer (as of 2022!). For some cool Crimson Tide or event merchandise, check out the shops and kiosks at Coleman Coliseum or around campus.

How can I find the cheapest tickets to games and events at Coleman Coliseum?

As well as occasional large concerts and other events, Crimson Tide basketball games are the big draw at Coleman Coliseum, especially as the basketball-mad state of Alabama has no NBA team (the closest is the Atlanta Hawks, but Atlanta is a 3-hour drive from Tuscaloosa). This creates heavy demand for seats at big games, particularly important conference deciders or finals, which can make it tricky to nab tickets. Never fear! Finding the cheapest tickets to Crimson Tide basketball games or other big events at Coleman Coliseum is easy using the TicketX listings on this page and our trusty TicketX seating chart, where you can compare different seating options in terms of price and location. With just one click, you can purchase your tickets from TicketX with the lowest commission fees!

Coleman Coliseum Seating Chart

Coleman Coliseum is a large venue that offers visitors a good deal of choice when it comes to different seating options. Those looking for a more exclusive experience can opt for premium seating areas like the Coleman Coliseum Club Room or courtside seats. Plenty of fun is to be had in the general admission seating that fills most of the arena; just let the Tide carry you away!

Getting to Coleman Coliseum (Transportation and Parking)

Visitors can access Coleman Coliseum via public transportation or driving their own vehicle. 

Getting to Coleman Coliseum via public transportation

Local Tuscaloosa city buses do run past Coleman Coliseum, though service is not as regular on weekends. A taxi or ride-share might be an easier and more convenient option. If staying near campus, it is possible to walk to the venue. There are also free shuttle buses from some parking areas. 

Getting to Coleman Coliseum by car

Driving to Coleman Coliseum in your own vehicle is easy enough if you budget enough time to deal with the traffic that builds up around the venue prior to big games and events. The official Crimson Tide website has driving directions that can help you plan your route into Tuscaloosa.

Does Coleman Coliseum have on-site parking?

Yes, there is plenty of parking near Coleman Coliseum, but the closest parking lots are all reserved for Tide Pride members. Public parking is available around campus, particularly in the Soccer Lot, from where you can catch a free shuttle (though the distance is easily walkable). Head to the official Crimson Tide website for parking information and detailed parking maps.

How much does Coleman Coliseum parking cost?

While parking in the lots adjacent to Coleman Coliseum is reserved for Tide Pride members, parking in the public lots around campus is free (though this is subject to change). Check the official Crimson Tide website for public parking maps and more information on parking prices.