Auburn's Jungle Roars: A Formidable Force in College Basketball's Top Arenas

In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, the student section has become a crucial element in creating an electrifying atmosphere that can sway the outcome of a game. CBS Sports and Bleacher Report college basketball analyst Andy Katz recently unveiled his rankings of the top 10 college basketball student sections heading into the 2024-2025 season, and Auburn University's Neville Arena, affectionately known as "The Jungle," has emerged as a force to be reckoned with.

Unleashing the Roar: Auburn's Jungle Secures a Top-10 Ranking

Establishing a Formidable Presence in the SEC

While Auburn's No. 7 ranking in Katz's list may surprise some Tiger fans, the fact that the university is the only SEC school to make the cut is a testament to the remarkable transformation of its basketball program and its dedicated fan base. Historically, Neville Arena, formerly known as Auburn Arena, was often overlooked as a premier college basketball destination, but under the leadership of head coach Bruce Pearl, the Jungle has become a force to be reckoned with.

Defying Regional Expectations

Katz's top 10 list is dominated by schools north of the Mason-Dixon Line, with Purdue, Kansas, Michigan State, Gonzaga, UConn, San Diego State, Rutgers, and Providence rounding out the rankings. The inclusion of Auburn, a southern university, in this elite group is a remarkable achievement, showcasing the program's ability to create an atmosphere that rivals the best in the nation.

Transforming the Jungle into a Premier Destination

The rise of Auburn as one of the most difficult environments in college basketball has been nothing short of remarkable. Once an afterthought in the SEC, the Jungle has become a premier destination for college basketball fans and Auburn fanatics alike. Under Bruce Pearl's guidance, the arena has undergone a transformation, evolving into a cauldron of energy and passion that can intimidate even the most seasoned opponents.

Preparing for a Challenging Season Ahead

As Auburn prepares to embark on one of the most brutal non-conference stretches in its history, the Jungle will need to show out in full force when the Tigers' basketball team tips off the season in a few short months. With only one of the destinations ranked on Katz's list (Duke) on their schedule, the Tigers will rely on the unwavering support of their home crowd to fuel their success.

Facing Formidable Opponents and Neutral-Site Challenges

While the Tigers may not have to travel to many of the top-ranked arenas on Katz's list, they do have a neutral-site series with Purdue, the second-ranked team on the list, starting in 2024. The first game is set to take place in Birmingham, and the 2025 matchup in Indianapolis is sure to bring out a strong contingent of Boilermaker faithful, making the Jungle's support all the more crucial.

Embracing the Season Opener and Beyond

Auburn's 2024-2025 season tips off on November 6 from Neville Arena when the Tigers host NCAA Tournament mainstay Vermont. This early-season clash will be the first opportunity for the Jungle to showcase its power and set the tone for the rest of the campaign. As the Tigers navigate through their challenging schedule, the unwavering support of their passionate fan base will be a key factor in their success.