Xavier-Dillard rivalry moves to New Orleans Arena

The biggest basketball rivalry in the city finally gets a house big enough to hold it when Xavier University's traditional regular season finale with Dillard moves to the New Orleans Arena.

According to Todd Keller, XU director of athletics, the Gold Rush and Gold Nuggets home date against Dillard on Saturday, Feb. 26, will be played this year in the city's new 18,000-seat downtown arena.

The "Big" game has been played in a variety of venues over the years - ranging from the compact, standing-room-only 1,200-seat Barn (XU's regular home court) to the vast 10,000-seat Lakefront Arena. Keller said the new arena - built specifically for basketball - will combine some of the charm of The Barn with the comfort of a modern, state-of-the-art facility. He said the move represents a conscious effort to better accommodate studentsand alumni, and to ensure that everyone who wants to attend the game, can now do so.

Tickets went on sale February 1st at Xavier and the Superdome box office, as well as at all Ticketmaster locations. Tickets willalso be available at the door on game night. Ticket prices are $5 (end-court), $9 (side-court) and $14 (club seating). The latteroffers such amenities as access to the Club Level Lounge, a private concourse and large cushioned chairs. For moreinformation, call the Athletics Department at 504-483-7329.

The Gold Rush, who won two of three meetings with Dillard last season, hold a 40-30 edge in the overall series. The Nuggets swept both games last year, upping their overall series edge to 31-14.

Front Page

Newsroom Index