Vanderbilt’s historic gym takes center stage for Women's NCAA Tournament

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt’s Memorial Gymnasium hasn’t had many moments in the spotlight recently. It’s been 14 years since the Commodores last hosted the first and second rounds of the NCAA Tournament.

But now that coach Shea Ralph and sophomore All-American Mikayla Blakes have powered Vandy to the winningest season in school history, Memorial, and all its idiosyncrasies, will be on display. Its character isn’t a design flaw, but rather a slice of history. Opening in 1952, Memorial Gymnasium is the oldest arena in the SEC.

The court is elevated above the first row of fans. And team benches are positioned along the baselines instead of the sidelines. The stands feature a mix of both the original wood benches and modern seating.

For most of its history, coaches were forced to operate from the baseline, out of earshot from players on the other side of the court. It wasn’t until the 2015-16 season that the NCAA approved the use of a sideline coach’s box, a designated area on the floor where they can actually communicate with their team. “When I was here as an assistant, I don't think the coaches could go on the sideline.