Remembering the Chicago Stadium
This is not an old man shouting “get off my lawn” or “it was better in the good old days” article. This is just me reminiscing about what it was like going to a Chicago Bulls game more than 25 years ago.
I think I attended my first regular season Chicago Bulls NBA game in 1979 or 1980 at the old Chicago Stadium. Prior to the Chicago Stadium, the Bulls played in the since demolished Chicago Amphitheater. Since 1994, they have played in the United Center which is located one block west of the old Chicago Stadium..
The Chicago Stadium was a pre-suite vintage venue. It consisted of three levels, a main level and two balconies. The section of the main level under the first balcony was referred to as the Mezzanine section. The Mezzanine section was noted for it’s obstructed views due to pillars supporting the first and second balconies and low ceiling in back rows such that you had trouble seeing the scoreboard.
The new stadiums are much more aesthetically and environmentally pleasing but in hindsight I occasionally miss what made the Chicago Stadium a rocking place when the Bulls or Blackhawks were on their game.
Due to the absence of suites, the three levels were pitched at steeper angles than today’s arenas. The steeper pitch brought the first and second balconies closer to the action. The second balcony was pitched so steep that if you…
