Duke Men’s Basketball is at Cameron Indoor Stadium for the First Time
Duke University’s men’s basketball team has a storied history, and their home court, Cameron Indoor Stadium, is one of the most iconic venues in college basketball. However, the Blue Devils didn’t always play at Cameron. The team’s first game at Cameron Indoor Stadium was on January 6, 1940, against Princeton, marking the beginning of a new era for Duke basketball.​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
Early Years and the Move to Cameron
Before moving to Cameron Indoor Stadium, Duke’s men’s basketball team played at Card Gymnasium, a facility that was becoming outdated for the growing program. Recognizing the need for a larger and more modern arena, Duke’s athletic department decided to build a new facility. The plans for the stadium were drawn up in 1935 by basketball coach Eddie Cameron, after whom the stadium is named. The stadium was designed by Julian Abele, who studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris, France. The same architectural firm that built the Palestra was brought in to build the new stadium. The arena was dedicated on January 6, 1940, having cost $400,000. At the time, it was the largest gymnasium in the country south of the Palestra at the University of Pennsylvania.​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
The First Game at Cameron
The inaugural game at Cameron Indoor Stadium was held on January 6, 1940, against Princeton. Duke won the game 36–27, marking a successful debut for the new arena. The game was a significant milestone for Duke basketball, as it provided the team with a state-of-the-art facility that would become a fortress for the Blue Devils over the ensuing decades.​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
Evolution of the Arena
Originally called “Duke Indoor Stadium,” the arena was renamed to honor Coach Eddie Cameron on January 22, 1972, after a victory over archrival North Carolina. Over the years, the stadium has undergone several renovations to maintain its status as a premier basketball venue. Renovations in 1987–1988 removed the standing room areas and added seats, bringing capacity to 9,314. In 2000, the hardwood floor was dedicated and renamed Coach K Court in honor of head coach Mike Krzyzewski, following a victory over Villanova in the Preseason NIT that was Krzyzewski’s 500th win as Duke head coach.​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
The Cameron Crazies and Home-Court Advantage
One of the defining features of Cameron Indoor Stadium is its passionate fan base, known as the “Cameron Crazies.” These students are known for their creative and often humorous chants, elaborate costumes, and unwavering support for the team. Their presence creates an electrifying atmosphere that makes Cameron one of the toughest places for visiting teams to play. The stadium’s design, with its close proximity to the court and steep seating, amplifies the noise and intensity, contributing to Duke’s formidable home-court advantage.​Wikipedia+2Discover Durham+2Wikipedia+2
Legacy and Impact
Since its opening, Cameron Indoor Stadium has become synonymous with Duke basketball. The Blue Devils have achieved remarkable success at home, boasting an impressive all-time record at the arena. The atmosphere at Cameron has been a significant factor in attracting top recruits and fostering a winning culture within the program. The stadium has also hosted numerous memorable moments and games, solidifying its place in college basketball history.​
In recognition of its significance, Sports Illustrated ranked Cameron Indoor Stadium fourth on its list of the top 20 sporting venues of the 20th century. USA Today referred to it as “the toughest road game in the nation,” highlighting the challenges faced by visiting teams when playing at Duke’s home court.​WikipediaWikipedia
The first game at Cameron Indoor Stadium was more than just a basketball game; it was the beginning of a legacy. Since that inaugural game in 1940, Cameron has become a symbol of Duke basketball’s excellence and tradition. The combination of passionate fans, a rich history, and a commitment to success has made Cameron Indoor Stadium one of the most revered venues in college sports. As Duke continues to build on its storied past, the legacy of that first game remains a testament to the enduring spirit of Blue Devil basketball.
