2Though better known as a football powerhouse, the University of Florida has produced some excellent basketball teams in recent years. Back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007 thrust the basketball Gators onto the national stage and made attending a home game at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center one of the hottest tickets in the college sport. Here's what you need to know to make the most of a Gator basketball game.Ticket
Pom-pom
Orange and blue clothing
Comfortable shoes
- Dress in orange and blue clothing, which will help you blend in with Gator fans. Also wear comfortable shoes, since you may be on your feet a lot.Arrive at the O'Connell Center about 30 minutes before tip off.Purchase a ticket for the game either at the box office or from other patrons outside the arena.Pick up an orange and blue pom-pom at the entrance to the arena. These are free for fans to use and help add to the spirit of the game.Watch the television screens at either end of the court for instant replays or if your seats are too far away to see the action well.Listen for the band to play the old Paul Simon song, "You Can Call Me Al." Albert the Alligator, the school's mascot, will dance on the court and all the fans will be on their feet. Shake your pom-pom when this happens.Take a picture with Albert the Alligator, who will be roaming around the arena throughout the game.Take cues from the rest of the crowd, shouting when they shout and being quiet when they're quiet.
