News
October 28, 2015Siena Extends Men’s Basketball Contract with Times Union Center Through 2020
Siena College and Times Union Center officials announced today a five-year extension to their agreement, making the downtown Albany facility the home for Siena men’s basketball through 2020. The Saints have been playing home games in the Arena since its opening in 1990, and made the full-time move prior to the 1997-98 season.
“We are proud of our long partnership with the County of Albany and excited to know it will continue for many more exciting seasons at the Times Union Center,” Siena College President Br. F. Ed Coughlin, O.F.M., Ph.D. said. “The County and executive Dan McCoy continue to make the Center a venue with a winning atmosphere for our student athletes and fans. The result is an environment that distinguishes Siena from our athletic rivals, and allows us to deliver our message to thousands of fans across the Capital Region.”
The Saints have drawn over 2-million fans (2,075,705) in 315 games played at Times Union Center, and have ranked in the top-100 nationally 18 straight years since making the full-time move. Siena has averaged 6,590 fans per home game at Times Union Center.
“Siena is fortunate to have an outstanding partnership with the County of Albany and SMG,” Siena College vice president and director of athletics John D’Argenio said. “We look forward to continuing to work with the County, Bob Belber and the Times Union Center staff to provide a great sports entertainment experience to Capital Region fans. Siena’s connection to playing in Albany dates back to the 1950s when the men’s basketball team regularly played in the Washington Avenue Armory, often against ranked teams, and has continued throughout the history of Times Union Center. We look forward to creating more memories for more fans in the Times Union Center. ”
The Saints own a 209-106 (.663) all-time record at Times Union Center. The Saints won three straight MAAC Championship and 38 straight games at Times Union Center from 2008-10.
“Times Union Center is thrilled to continue our partnership with Siena College,” said Times Union Center general manager Bob Belber. “With the tremendous support that the Saints get from the fans and the community, Times Union Center is honored to be their home. We look forward to an exciting season, and hope that the Capital Region continues to support the Saints both during their season and at the MAAC Championships in March,”
In 2009-10, the Saints welcomed a program-record 133,505 spectators through the Times Union Center doors, an average of 7,853 fans per game. Last year’s home game against UAlbany drew 10,278 fans, marking the 32nd time Siena has drawn over 10,000 fans for a home game at Times Union Center.
“This is great news for college basketball fans in the region, the Times Union Center and the county,” said Albany county executive Daniel P. McCoy. “Year after year, Siena fans show their support and spirit for their teams. We’re looking forward to another great season in the MAAC under men’s coach Jimmy Patsos and women’s coach Ali Jaques. Siena has also been instrumental in bringing the NCAA women’s’ regional to town, and we are looking forward to more postseason play in Albany.”
Season tickets for the 2015-16 Siena men’s basketball season start at just $70. They can be purchased in person at the Siena Fan Relations Management Center at Times Union Center during business hours or by calling 518.487.2202.
