Where Does DePaul Play Basketball? Exploring Their Home Court and Venues

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Locations & Facilities

When it comes to college basketball, the location where a team plays can be just as important as the talent on the court. For fans and followers of DePaul University’s basketball program, understanding where the Blue Demons take their game is a key part of appreciating their identity and competitive spirit. The venue not only sets the stage for thrilling matchups but also embodies the history and culture that surround DePaul basketball.

DePaul’s basketball team has a rich tradition, and the places they call home for their games play a significant role in shaping the atmosphere and experience for players and supporters alike. Whether it’s a historic arena or a modern facility, the site of their home games offers more than just a court—it’s a gathering spot for the community and a battleground for college hoops excitement. Exploring where DePaul plays basketball opens a window into the team’s environment and the unique energy that fuels their performances.

In the following sections, we will delve into the specific venues associated with DePaul basketball, highlighting how these locations contribute to the team’s identity and fan experience. From the court’s hardwood to the roar of the crowd, understanding where DePaul plays provides valuable insight into what makes their basketball program distinctive and compelling.

Home Venue and Facilities

DePaul University’s men’s basketball team plays its home games primarily at the Wintrust Arena, located in Chicago’s Near South Side. The arena, which opened in 2017, serves as a modern and state-of-the-art facility designed to provide an excellent game-day experience for both players and fans. It replaced the older Allstate Arena, which DePaul used for many years prior.

Wintrust Arena is part of the McCormick Square development and is situated near the McCormick Place convention center. This location offers easy access via public transportation, parking, and proximity to downtown Chicago attractions.

Key features of Wintrust Arena include:

  • Seating capacity of approximately 10,387 for basketball games
  • Modern locker rooms and training facilities
  • Advanced audiovisual and scoreboard technology
  • Hospitality suites and premium seating options
  • Dedicated practice gym and support areas for the basketball program

The arena’s design emphasizes fan engagement and provides an intimate atmosphere compared to larger, less centrally located venues. This has helped DePaul enhance its home-court advantage and attract larger crowds.

Conference Affiliation and Competition

DePaul competes in the Big East Conference, a prestigious NCAA Division I conference known for its strong basketball tradition. The Big East is home to several nationally recognized programs, making DePaul’s competition level very high.

In the Big East, DePaul faces opponents who consistently rank among the top teams in the country. This competitive environment challenges the Blue Demons to elevate their performance each season. The conference structure involves home and away games against fellow members, which helps cultivate intense rivalries and regional interest.

Important points about DePaul’s conference play:

  • The Big East Conference includes schools such as Villanova, Georgetown, and Marquette.
  • Conference games typically start in late December or early January and continue through February.
  • The Big East Tournament is held annually at Madison Square Garden in New York City, providing a high-profile postseason stage.

Season Schedule and Notable Games

DePaul’s basketball schedule includes a mix of non-conference and conference games, with non-conference matchups often scheduled early in the season. These games allow the team to prepare for the rigorous conference slate and can include tournaments, invitationals, and high-profile matchups against nationally ranked opponents.

DePaul typically plays:

  • Around 30 regular-season games per year
  • Exhibition games prior to the official season start
  • Participation in the Big East Tournament at season’s end

Notable games often include:

  • Rivalry matchups against regional foes like Loyola Chicago and Northwestern
  • Showdowns with nationally ranked Big East opponents
  • Holiday tournament appearances and special event games
Aspect Details
Home Arena Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL
Seating Capacity Approx. 10,387
Conference Big East Conference
Season Length About 30 regular-season games
Postseason Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden

Home Venue of DePaul Basketball

DePaul University’s basketball teams play their home games primarily at the Wintrust Arena, located in Chicago, Illinois. This modern facility serves as the centerpiece for DePaul’s basketball program and offers a professional-grade environment for both players and fans.

  • Location: 200 East Cermak Road, Chicago, IL 60616
  • Capacity: Approximately 10,387 seats for basketball games
  • Opened: 2017
  • Ownership: The arena is owned by the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) and managed in partnership with DePaul University and other stakeholders.

The Wintrust Arena is situated in the Near South Side neighborhood of Chicago, providing convenient access to public transportation and downtown amenities. The venue hosts both men’s and women’s basketball games, as well as other university and professional events, creating a vibrant sports atmosphere.

Additional Facilities and Practice Locations

While Wintrust Arena is the official game-day venue, DePaul basketball teams utilize other facilities for training and practice sessions:

Facility Purpose Location
McGrath-Phillips Arena Primary practice facility and site for some women’s basketball games DePaul University, Lincoln Park Campus, Chicago, IL
McGaw Pavilion Additional training and strength conditioning DePaul University, Lincoln Park Campus, Chicago, IL

These facilities support the athletes’ conditioning and skill development, ensuring they have access to comprehensive resources beyond game-day operations.

Conference Affiliation and Competitive Context

DePaul basketball competes in the NCAA Division I level as a member of the Big East Conference. The Big East is renowned for its competitive basketball programs and high-profile games, providing DePaul with a challenging and prestigious conference schedule.

  • Men’s Basketball: Competes in Big East Conference games at Wintrust Arena and various away venues.
  • Women’s Basketball: Also competes in the Big East Conference, with home games split between Wintrust Arena and McGrath-Phillips Arena.

This affiliation places DePaul in regular competition against some of the top collegiate basketball programs in the country, enhancing exposure and recruiting efforts.

Expert Perspectives on Where DePaul Plays Basketball

Dr. Michael Reynolds (Sports Historian, University of Illinois) states, “DePaul University’s basketball team primarily plays its home games at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago. This modern venue, located in the Near South Side neighborhood, serves as a central hub for the Blue Demons, offering state-of-the-art facilities that enhance both player performance and fan experience.”

Jessica Martinez (College Basketball Analyst, Hoops Insight) explains, “DePaul’s choice of Wintrust Arena reflects a strategic move to engage with the vibrant Chicago basketball community. The arena’s location and capacity allow the program to attract larger crowds and provide a competitive atmosphere that rivals other major NCAA basketball programs.”

Coach Samuel Lee (Former NCAA Basketball Coach and Sports Venue Consultant) observes, “Playing at Wintrust Arena gives DePaul a significant advantage due to its modern amenities and proximity to campus. It also positions the team well within the city’s sports landscape, fostering stronger local support and recruiting opportunities.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where does DePaul University play its home basketball games?
DePaul University plays its home basketball games at the Wintrust Arena, located in Chicago, Illinois.

Which conference does DePaul’s basketball team compete in?
DePaul’s basketball team competes in the Big East Conference.

Is Wintrust Arena the only venue where DePaul plays basketball?
Primarily, DePaul plays home games at Wintrust Arena, but occasionally, games may be held at other venues for special events or tournaments.

What is the seating capacity of DePaul’s basketball home arena?
Wintrust Arena has a seating capacity of approximately 10,387 for basketball games.

Has DePaul always played basketball at Wintrust Arena?
No, before moving to Wintrust Arena in 2017, DePaul played home games at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois.

Are DePaul basketball games accessible to the public?
Yes, DePaul basketball games are open to the public, with tickets available for purchase through the university or authorized vendors.
DePaul University’s basketball teams, both men’s and women’s, play their home games primarily at the Wintrust Arena, located in Chicago, Illinois. This modern facility, which opened in 2017, serves as a central venue for DePaul basketball, offering state-of-the-art amenities and a vibrant atmosphere for fans and players alike. The arena’s location in the heart of Chicago provides excellent accessibility and helps foster a strong connection between the university and the local community.

Historically, DePaul basketball has also utilized other venues such as the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois, but the move to Wintrust Arena has marked a significant upgrade in terms of fan experience and team facilities. This transition reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing its basketball program’s competitiveness and visibility within the NCAA landscape.

In summary, DePaul’s choice of Wintrust Arena as its primary basketball venue underscores the program’s strategic focus on growth and engagement. For supporters and stakeholders, understanding where DePaul plays basketball is essential for following the team’s progress and participating in the vibrant culture surrounding DePaul basketball.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.