College basketball is known for its passionate fans, intense rivalries, and electric atmospheres. But while some fanbases are notorious for their hostility and rowdiness, others are defined by hospitality, sportsmanship, and genuine love for the game.
In this ranking, we highlight the 20 nicest fanbases in college basketball—those who embrace the spirit of competition while treating opposing teams and their supporters with respect.
20. Dayton Flyers
Dayton might not be a blue-blood program, but their fans are among the most devoted and welcoming in the sport. The city loves its basketball, and whether at UD Arena or on the road, Flyers fans are known for being gracious to opponents.
19. Butler Bulldogs
Hinkle Fieldhouse is one of college basketball’s most historic venues, and Butler fans maintain a respectful, family-friendly atmosphere. They appreciate good basketball, even when their team isn’t on top.
18. Wisconsin Badgers
Wisconsin fans are some of the most knowledgeable in the country. While they get loud in the Kohl Center, they aren’t known for crossing the line into hostility. They embody Midwestern hospitality, even in defeat.
17. Creighton Bluejays
Creighton fans pack the CHI Health Center Omaha with enthusiasm but never intimidation. They take pride in their team while treating visiting fans with respect.
16. Villanova Wildcats
Villanova has seen great success in recent years, but their fans remain among the most polite in the sport. They respect opponents and show great sportsmanship, whether winning or losing.
15. Texas Longhorns
Texas may be a football school at heart, but their basketball fans still bring the energy. Longhorns fans enjoy good competition and aren’t known for being aggressive toward visitors.
14. Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue has one of the loudest arenas in college basketball, but their fanbase is more about school pride than hostility. Their support for their team is fierce, but they rarely cross the line.
13. Iowa State Cyclones
Hilton Magic is real, and Cyclone fans are as passionate as they come. But unlike some other fanbases, Iowa State supporters maintain a friendly and fun game-day environment.
12. St. Mary’s Gaels
A small-school feel and a passionate but respectful fanbase make St. Mary’s one of the most pleasant places to catch a game. Their fans love their team but treat visitors with class.
11. North Carolina Tar Heels
Despite being a powerhouse, UNC fans are generally known for their friendliness and respect for the game. They appreciate good basketball and don’t engage in excessive hostility toward opponents.
10. Kansas Jayhawks
Allen Fieldhouse is one of the toughest venues for opponents, but Kansas fans love the game and respect their competition. Their traditions and sportsmanship make them one of the best crowds in college hoops.
9. Xavier Musketeers
Xavier fans are loud but friendly. They appreciate a hard-fought game and aren’t known for being disrespectful to visiting teams. Their love for basketball shines through in every matchup.
8. Indiana Hoosiers
Indiana fans have a deep love for basketball, and despite their passion, they maintain a respectful and welcoming environment. Assembly Hall is an intimidating place to play, but the fans are more about tradition than trash talk.
7. Michigan Wolverines
Michigan fans bring energy to Crisler Center without the nastiness of some other Big Ten rivals. They love good basketball and show respect to opposing teams and their fans.
6. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Spokane loves its Zags, and their fans are as passionate as they come. But unlike some intense fanbases, Gonzaga supporters maintain a welcoming and respectful atmosphere.
5. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame fans carry themselves with class. They love their team but rarely engage in hostility, making their arena one of the more enjoyable environments for visiting fans.
4. Baylor Bears
Baylor fans are enthusiastic but respectful. The McLane Student Section brings great energy without being overly aggressive, and the fanbase as a whole welcomes visiting teams with class.
3. Davidson Wildcats
A small but passionate fanbase, Davidson supporters embody sportsmanship. They appreciate good basketball and respect their competition, making them one of the most pleasant groups in the sport.
2. BYU Cougars
BYU fans are known for being friendly, welcoming, and respectful. The Marriott Center gets loud, but the crowd is overwhelmingly positive, creating one of the nicest environments in college basketball.
Read More: 15 College Basketball Programs That Will Steal Your Heart
1. Nebraska Cornhuskers
No fanbase is more welcoming than Nebraska’s. Whether in football or basketball, Husker fans have a reputation for kindness and respect. They appreciate a great game, support their team through thick and thin, and always treat opponents with class.
