Jan 12, 2026
·Mary Callahan
Nestled on the campus of the University of Oregon, Matthew Knight Arena is one of the premier college basketball arenas in the country. Opened in 2011, this modern venue serves as the home of Oregon Ducks men’s and women’s basketball, while also hosting concerts, family entertainment and community events. With state-of-the-art facilities, striking architecture and a fan base known for its passion, Matthew Knight Arena has quickly become a must-visit destination for live sports and entertainment in the Pacific Northwest.
About Matthew Knight Arena
Location: 1390 Villard Street, Eugene, OR 97403
Opened: January 13, 2011
Capacity: Approximately 12,300 for basketball
Primary Tenants: Oregon Ducks men’s and women’s basketball
Other Uses: Concerts, family shows, lectures, community gatherings
The arena is named in honor of Matthew Knight, the late son of Nike co-founder and Oregon alum Phil Knight, whose contributions helped make the project possible.
History and Highlights
Matthew Knight Arena was built as a replacement for the historic McArthur Court, which had served as Oregon’s basketball home since 1926. The new arena combined tradition with modern design, featuring advanced technology, eco-friendly elements and one of the most unique basketball courts in the nation. The “Deep in the Woods” court design pays homage to Oregon’s lush forests and has become an instantly recognizable symbol of Ducks basketball.
In just over a decade, the arena has hosted thrilling Pac-12 basketball matchups, NCAA Tournament games and memorable concerts from top artists like Elton John, The Killers and Foo Fighters. It has also been a venue for family entertainment events, including Disney on Ice and Cirque du Soleil.
Getting to Matthew Knight Arena
Driving and Parking
The arena is located on the east side of campus near Franklin Boulevard. Parking is available in surrounding university lots and garages, though spaces can be limited on game days. Guests are encouraged to purchase parking in advance or use alternative transportation.
Public Transit
Lane Transit District (LTD) buses provide convenient service to the University of Oregon campus, with stops near the arena. Many fans use the bus system to avoid parking challenges.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft operate in Eugene, with pickup and drop-off zones established near the venue for game days and concerts.
Plan Your Visit
Doors Open: Usually 60–90 minutes before tipoff or event start time.
Tickets: Mobile ticketing is the standard entry method.
Event Duration: Basketball games last around 2–2.5 hours; concert times vary by artist.
Food and Beverages
Matthew Knight Arena features a range of concession options, from classic stadium fare like pizza, hot dogs and nachos to healthier and more local food offerings. Beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at most events for fans 21 and over.
Seating and Experience
Lower Bowl: Offers the most immersive game-day experience with seats closest to the action.
Club Level: Premium seating with upgraded amenities and access to exclusive lounges.
Upper Level: More affordable seating with wide sightlines that make it a good choice for families and groups.
Concert Configurations: The arena adapts to end-stage and center-stage setups, ensuring good views from nearly every section.
One of the standout features is the intimate design—even at full capacity, fans feel close to the court or stage, making the energy electric.
Venue Policies
Bag Policy: Clear bag policy in effect (12” x 6” x 12” or smaller).
Security: Metal detectors and bag checks are standard at all entrances.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and drink, professional cameras, large signs and noisemakers.
Re-Entry: No re-entry is permitted once you leave the arena.
Why Matthew Knight Arena Stands Out
Matthew Knight Arena represents a perfect blend of Oregon tradition and modern amenities. From the iconic forest-themed court to its sleek design and lively fan atmosphere, the arena has cemented itself as one of the best college basketball venues in the country. With its versatility as a concert and event space, it continues to attract both diehard Ducks fans and entertainment seekers from across Oregon and beyond.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Whether you’re cheering on the Oregon Ducks in a high-stakes Pac-12 matchup or catching a concert from one of your favorite artists, Matthew Knight Arena offers a world-class live event experience. Use SeatGeek to find tickets, compare prices and secure the best seats for your next visit to Eugene.
📁 Categories: NCAA Basketball