The Alamodome: A Legacy of Iconic Events Ahead of the 2025 Final Four

Courtesy of Alamodome.com

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (TXAN 24) — As the 2025 NCAA Men’s Final Four Championship Game is set to tip off in San Antonio, all eyes will be on the Alamodome, a venue with a rich history of hosting some of the biggest events in sports and entertainment. Opened in 1993, the multi-purpose stadium has been home to unforgettable moments, from championship games to legendary concerts.

Here’s a look at three of the biggest events that have shaped the Alamodome’s legacy:

1. The 1998 NBA Finals – Spurs’ First Taste of Championship Glory

Before the San Antonio Spurs moved into the AT&T Center, the Alamodome was their home from 1993 to 2002. One of its most significant moments came during the 1998-99 NBA season, when the Spurs, led by Tim Duncan and David Robinson, played their NBA Finals home games in the venue. The Spurs defeated the New York Knicks in Game 1 and Game 2 at the Alamodome before securing their first-ever NBA championship on the road. This title laid the foundation for the Spurs’ dynasty, which went on to win five NBA championships.

2. The 2008 NCAA Men’s Final Four – Kansas’ Miracle Comeback

The Alamodome has hosted the Men’s Final Four five times (1998, 2004, 2008, 2018, and now 2025), but the 2008 championship game stands out as one of the greatest in NCAA history. Kansas faced Memphis in a thriller that saw Mario Chalmers hit a clutch three-pointer with 2.1 seconds left to force overtime. Kansas went on to win 75-68, securing their first national championship in 20 years. This game is still regarded as one of the most dramatic finishes in college basketball history.

3. The 2023 Royal Rumble – WWE’s Record-Breaking Event

The Alamodome has also been a prime location for WWE, hosting two Royal Rumbles (1997 and 2023). The 2023 Royal Rumble shattered records, drawing 51,338 fans, the largest crowd in event history outside of WrestleMania. The night featured Cody Rhodes’ dramatic return and victory in the Royal Rumble match, setting the stage for his WrestleMania 39 main event. WWE’s long-standing history with the Alamodome proves its status as a premier venue for major sporting events.

Looking Ahead to the Championship of the 2025 Final Four

With its deep-rooted history in basketball, wrestling, and beyond, the Alamodome remains one of the most versatile and legendary venues in the country. As college basketball’s biggest stage returns to San Antonio for the 2025 Final Four, fans can expect another chapter of unforgettable moments in the heart of Texas.