Ranking All 30 NBA Arenas From Worst to First

It’s awesome to watch your favorite NBA teams battle it out against opponents in their home arenas. It’s hard not to notice the love, passion and thrill inside which is an incomparable feeling even if you only witnessed it once.

It’s hard to compare each experience, but each arena is different from the others. Today, we will be ranking all 30 NBA team’s arenas from worst to first.

30. Madison Square Garden (New York Knicks)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 09: General view of tip off during the first half of a preseason game between the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on October 09, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

As James Dolan continues to be the worst owner in the NBA today, we’ll give the title for the worst NBA arena to the Knicks. The face recognition technology they use to ban certain people may be a bit too much.

29. Smoothie King Center (New Orleans Pelicans)

NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 30: A general view of the stadium before the Indiana Pacers and the New Orleans Pelicans at the New Orleans Arena on October 30, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

While the Pelicans are striving on the court, the same can’t be said about their arena. Built in 1999, their home arena feels old and outdated. It also hurts that their owner is blatantly treating them as little brothers compared to the much more profitable New Orleans Saints.

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28. Target Center (Minnesota Timberwolves)

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – MAY 01: A general view of the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and New Orleans Pelicans during the fourth quarter at Target Center on May 1, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harrison Barden/Getty Images)

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The second oldest arena in the league behind MSG, the renovations they did in 2017 were somehow unfelt by fans as the arena still feels outdated by today’s standards. Plus, the team hasn’t made any significant strides since KG left in 2007.

27. Capital One Arena (Washington Wizards)

WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 13: A general view of the New Orleans Pelicans playing against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena on December 13, 2023 in Washington, DC. CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment Ted Leonsis held a press conference with Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin announcing an agreement and plans to create an entertainment district at the Potomac Yard in Alexandria, Virginia which would become the new home arena for the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Located at the heart of Washington, D.C., this arena has not changed a lot since the team was called Bullets. Fans felt like diversity is lacking in surrounding areas due to businesses being shut down in the last couple of decades.

26. Barclays Center (Brooklyn Nets)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 19: General view of the arena before the first half between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on October 19, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Barclays’ low ranking isn’t about its modernity. The design of the arena has drawn flak due to its irrelevance to New York infrastructure. One look at it and you may have thought that this arena hosts a football team from Europe.

25. Rocket Morgage Fieldhouse (Cleveland Cavaliers)

CLEVELAND, OHIO – OCTOBER 28: A general stadium view during player introductions prior to the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Oklahoma City Thunder at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 28, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

While the Cavs’ arena has seen some success in recent years, most of its magic faded ever since LeBron left the team to seek greener pastures a long time ago. The lighting is somewhat darker than in most arenas.

24. Amway Center (Orlando Magic)

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – JANUARY 04: General view of the arena prior to the game between the Orlando Magic and the Cleveland Cavaliers at Amway Center on January 04, 2021 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)

Fans of this team have suffered from multiple losing seasons since Amway opened its doors in 2010. Now the team has a good young core, maybe they can entice back their supporters to show up to the games.

23. State Farm Arena (Atlanta Hawks)

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – DECEMBER 11: A view of State Farm Arena prior to a preseason game between the Atlanta Hawks and the Orlando Magic on December 11, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The Hawks generally suffer due to their lack of success on the court compared to other popular pro sports teams in the city. Sure, Trae Young has been nice, but they need more to create interest in this arena.

22. Delta Center (Utah Jazz)

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – MAY 23: A general view as fans watch the Utah Jazz compete against the Memphis Grizzlies in Game One of the Western Conference first-round playoff series at Vivint Smart Home Arena on May 23, 2021 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

Built in 1991, it’s baffling that the team hasn’t built a new arena for the Jazz. There’s nothing much to preserve in terms of success as the team hasn’t won a single championship throughout their existence in the league.

21. Toyota Center (Houston Rockets)

HOUSTON, TX – APRIL 29: A general view of the arena before Game One of the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs between the Houston Rockets and the Utah Jazz at Toyota Center on April 29, 2018 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

While this arena had some memorable moments such as Yao Ming’s dominance, T-Mac’s 13 points in 33 seconds, and James Harden’s MVP season, it generally feels that something is still missing for the team. Maybe renaming it can finally get the team over the hump?

20. Paycom Arena (Oklahoma City Thunder)

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – FEBRUARY 22: Amir Coffey #7 of the LA Clippers drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on February 22, 2024 at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images

This arena felt like it peaked when they still had Durant and Westbrook on the team. While the Thunder now have a nice young core, the excitement never really returned inside the arena.

19. Spectrum Center (Charlotte Hornets)

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – FEBRUARY 22: A general view of the court during the game between the Brooklyn Nets and Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on February 22, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

While Spectrum Center deserves to be much lower in this ranking due to the team’s awful performance on the court, they get a pass because they’ve been great hosts for NCAA tournaments in recent years.

18. Intuit Dome (Los Angeles Clippers)

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 10: The future indoor arena for the Los Angeles Clippers The Intuit Dome under construction on September 10, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The Clippers will finally have their own arena in 2024 and will no longer share with their much popular sibling, the Lakers. We’re just trusting Steve Balmer’s crazy optimism that he’ll make this new arena over the top and futuristic.

17. Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indiana Pacers)

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – FEBRUARY 18: A general view during the 2024 NBA All-Star Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 18, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

There’s nothing much to like for this arena and for the team in general. The Pacers haven’t made some significant strides in recent years and their attendance is one of the worst in the league.

16. Little Caesars Arena (Detroit Pistons)

DETROIT, MI – FEBRUARY 14: A general view of the Little Caesars Arena before a game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Detroit Pistons on February 14, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images)

Being one of the newer arenas in the league, the attendance has suffered tremendously due to the team’s incompetence in building a contender in recent years. People of Detroit love the Pistons and the team should also return the favor by assembling a competitive team.

15. Moda Center (Portland Trail Blazers)

PORTLAND, OREGON – OCTOBER 21: A general view is seen at Moda Center between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Phoenix Suns on October 21, 2022 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Portland loves the Blazers whether they are good or bad but with Damian Lillard now gone, it’s understandable that the passion for the team will come down within the next few years.

14. Frost Bank Center (San Antonio Spurs)

SAN ANTONIO, TX – DECEMBER 31: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs drives over Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics in the second half at Frost Bank Center on December 31, 2023 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)

Ever since the big three of Duncan-Parker-Ginobili retired, it’s understandable that the attendance has gone down in recent years. With the arrival of Victor Wembanyama, tickets are now selling like crazy and Spurs fans are as loud as ever.

13. Scotiabank Arena (Toronto Raptors)

TORONTO, ON – OCTOBER 20: A general view of Scotiabank Arena prior to the Toronto Raptors home opener against the Washington Wizards on October 20, 2021 in Toronto, Canada. User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images)

Scotiabank Arena’s attendance has been one of the best in the league even though the team has suffered numerous of heartbreaks over the years. It also helps that this is the only NBA team located in Canada and they have all the country cheering for them.

12. American Airlines Center (Dallas Mavericks)

DALLAS, TEXAS – OCTOBER 27: A general view of the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Brooklyn Nets at American Airlines Center on October 27, 2023 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Owner Mark Cuban built this arena at the heart of downtown Dallas. The prime location really helped with the attendance as everybody in the city is aware whenever the Mavs are in town. In addition, buying a ticket means you could see Luka and Kyrie play.

11. FedEx Forum (Memphis Grizzlies)

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – OCTOBER 24: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies dunks during the game against the Brooklyn Nets at FedExForum on October 24, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

Memphis really loves their Grizzlies. From the grit-n-grind era up to Ja Morant’s arrival, fans are lining up to see their beloved stars. The arena has an electric atmosphere inside that can’t be explained.

10. Footprint Center (Phoenix Suns)

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 07: General view of action between the Phoenix Suns and the Utah Jazz during the overtime of the NBA game at Phoenix Suns Arena on April 07, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Jazz 117-113 in overtime. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

This arena is home to one of the most passionate fanbases in the league. It doesn’t matter if the team is struggling or not, their fans will defend them with their life. As the Suns are considered one of the favorites to win the title next season, expect this place to be loud.

9. Wells Fargo Center (Philadelphia 76ers)

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 04: A general view is seen during second quarter between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Phoenix Suns at the Wells Fargo Center on November 04, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

The basketball tradition in Philadelphia has been one of the driving forces for their outstanding attendance throughout the years. The experience whenever you watch the team play is surreal and you can definitely feel the vibe inside Wells Fargo.

8. Golden 1 Center (Sacramento Kings)

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 30: A general view as fans cheer during the third quarter in game seven of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs between the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on April 30, 2023 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Golden 1 Center was one of the loudest and most innovative arenas last season. It helps that the team ended their 16-year playoff drought. Plus, the team’s gimmick to “Light the Beam” has been well received by fans of the team.

7. Fiserv Forum (Milwaukee Bucks)

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – APRIL 20: A general view of the Fiserv Forum prior to Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Chicago Bulls on April 20, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

The arena’s vibrant energy is solely due to the team’s success in recent years. Giannis Antetokounmpo elevated this Bucks team since his arrival in 2013. It’s one of the most modern arenas in the league as it was opened to the public in 2018.

6. Ball Arena (Denver Nuggets)

DENVER, COLORADO – JUNE 12: A general view as the Denver Nuggets celebrate after a 94-89 victory against the Miami Heat in Game Five of the 2023 NBA Finals to win the NBA Championship at Ball Arena on June 12, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

Even though the arena changed names in 2020, Ball Arena is still fondly called Pepsi Center by folks in Denver. The location of this arena is close to the city’s entertainment district and there are lots of activities to do for fans after watching the unassuming Nikola Jokic torch opponents after every game.

5. Kaseya Center (Miami Heat)

MIAMI, FLORIDA – JUNE 09: A general view during the fourth quarter in Game Four of the 2023 NBA Finals between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center on June 09, 2023 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Everybody who’s attended a Miami Heat game will tell you that the atmosphere and vibe inside the arena is superb. Miami’s diversity has been lauded and watching the team play makes you feel that you are one with the crowd.

4. TD Garden – (Boston Celtics)

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – FEBRUARY 12: A general view of the TD Garden arena before a game between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Boston Celtics on February 12, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)

Whenever you step foot on TD Garden, the team’s rich history instantly hits you right off the bat. From all the numbers hanging up the rafters and the passionate fan base, you could immediately feel the pride people have for the Celtics.

3. United Center (Chicago Bulls)

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – NOVEMBER 03: A general view in the first half of the NBA In-Season Tournament between the Chicago Bulls and the Brooklyn Nets at the United Center on November 03, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

You know it’s a great arena when one of the main attractions is located outside – Michael Jordan’s iconic statue. While the team has struggled in recent years, the United Center still remains one of the most iconic arenas in the NBA solely due to MJ being the GOAT in basketball.

2. Chase Center (Golden State Warriors)

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 02: A general view inside Chase Center immediately prior to Game One of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics on June 02, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Who doesn’t love the Warriors? Steph Curry is the best shooter in the world and the team has won four championships in the last eight years. The vibe inside the arena is electric, loud and upbeat. If you want to have a great time, then Chase Center won’t disappoint you.

1. Crypto.com Arena (Los Angeles Lakers)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 14: A general view of play between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA In-Season Tournament game at Crypto.com Arena on November 14, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Formerly called Staples Center, this arena is the best in the NBA due to the fact that not only you are cheering for the Lakers, but you can also see several Hollywood royalties on the sidelines watching the game. It also holds as Kobe Bryant’s de facto memorial since his untimely death in 2020.