ncaa-basketball August 3, 2013 1:08pm EDT

50,000 for Syracuse vs. Duke at Carrier Dome? Sounds likely

Can you imagine 50,000 fans in the Carrier Dome for Syracuse’s game vs. Duke? reports that it very well could become reality.

The largest crowd ever for a basketball game at the dome came this past season, as the Orange said goodbye to Big East rival Georgetown before 35,012 fans. However, that’s with the dome’s regular basketball configuration, which does not utilize the entire arena.

If Syracuse vs. Georgetown drew 35,000 fans, just think what moving the court to the center of the Carrier Dome could do for the seating capacity. (AP Photo)

By moving the court from the south end of the dome to the center of the facility, that opens up more sightlines and could stand to make the Orange’s game vs. the Blue Devils viewed by more than 50,000 fans. The football seating capacity for the dome is just shy of 50,000, and a basketball court takes up far less space than a football field.

Two coaches and two great friends, Jim Boeheim and Mike Krzyzewski, getting ever closer to 1,000 wins. Two programs that will be in Sporting News’ Top 25 for 2013-14.


Syracuse executive senior athletic director Joe Giansante would not confirm or deny the plans.

"The schedule hasn't been released yet, so I can't confirm it or deny,'' Giansante told, before adding, "We're looking for ways to celebrate our inclusion in the ACC. Obviously, when Duke comes to town, it's going to be a special day.''

There are logistics to be worked out, notes, such as rewiring for television and moving any season-ticket holders who could be affected by the altered floor plan. And yes, meeting fire code.

The date of the Duke game has not been announced, but when the Orange’s schedule comes out, look for all kinds of hoopla.

Yeah, we'd tune in.