The Wolstein Center to Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse: A Transformative Venue in Downtown Cleveland

Located on the campus of Cleveland State University (CSU), the Wolstein Center has been a beloved destination for sports and entertainment enthusiasts since its opening in 1991. The arena, previously known as the CSU Convocation Center, underwent a name change to Wolstein Center in 2005 after being renamed by philanthropists Bert and Iris Wolstein.

Over the years, the Wolstein Center has played host to numerous high-profile events, including the 1998 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships, the first and second-round games of the 20 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournaments, and the 2019 NCAA Fencing Championships. Concerts featuring iconic artists such as David Bowie, Elton John, Martina McBride, TLC, Carrie Underwood, Justin Bieber, Janet Jackson, 311, The Beastie Boys, The Cure, The Blue Man Group, and Twenty One Pilots have also taken center stage at the venue.

In addition to its impressive sports and entertainment credentials, the Wolstein Center boasts a range of unique features. The area behind the curtain is transformed into a 'Kids Fun Zone' children's play area during games, while the giant American flag and auxiliary scoreboards facing the court add to the energetic atmosphere. Seating capacity can vary depending on the event, with lower-level seating available for basketball games and upper-level sections often covered with tarps.

The Wolstein Center's history is steeped in tradition, having been home to the Cleveland State Vikings men's and women's basketball teams since its inception. The arena has also played host to professional wrestling events and has undergone renovations to reduce its capacity for basketball games to 8,500 seats for most Vikings games.

In recent years, the venue has welcomed a new tenant, the Cleveland Charge of the NBA G League, which began playing home games at the Wolstein Center in 2021. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for the arena and the city of Cleveland as a whole.

As the Wolstein Center continues to evolve and grow, it remains a beloved destination for sports and entertainment enthusiasts alike. Its rich history, coupled with its state-of-the-art facilities and diverse range of events, make it a must-visit venue in downtown Cleveland.

Wolstein center to rocket mortgage fieldhouse