Peatross (NEO Spotlight) - I'm sure my car would be much happier with a trip to Columbus but I'm very much looking forward to seeing how packed UD Arena can get now that there are no limitations on spectators. Dayton should provide a much more intimate setting than Value City Arena did and if the attendance at Dayton Flyers games is any sort of indicator in terms of what we can expect, I think we're in for a lot of fun.
Albertson (Triple Double Prospects) - It's not a central location like OSU, but I would make the argument that UD Arena is the premiere basketball venue in the state of Ohio in terms of atmosphere. When UD Arena is rocking it has the capabilities to exceed Ohio State, Cincinnati, Xavier and all the smaller arenas as the single most enjoyable place to watch a game. Parking is relatively easy (although clearing out at the end of the night can be slow), the concourses have been redone, and you can never go wrong with Donatos pizza!
Stubbs (Around the State Podcast) - I’ve attended many events at UD Arena, and always have great experiences. Last year was unique with limited fans, but the 937 still delivered. I look for this year’s tournament to be electric. Dayton has the best basketball fanbase in the state of Ohio and it’s not close.
Goul (cleveland.com) - Last year was tough to get an accurate gauge with limited attendance. I’ve heard great feedback on this year’s girls championships. The environment is quite important, although I believe it’s a shame Ohio State isn’t remaining the host. Makes me want to lowercase the “T” in “The” Ohio State University.
Roth (Prep Hoops Ohio) - I think Dayton is a great city to host the state tournament. I’d like to see how the weekend operates with full capacity of fans before jumping to too many conclusions about it as a site.
Spegal (270 Hoops) - I really enjoyed UD as a host last season. I expect the same, if not better, this year as I expect that some of last year's COVID restrictions have gone away.
Fleer (270 Hoops) - I love UD Arena. Free parking, easy access to the highway and the way they treat the media is what I love most. And it's honestly not a bad drive from Columbus. Heck, I drove home on state final Sunday to go on a walk with my wife on a 70 degree day before coming back for the D1 title game.