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Thompson Boling Arena Tickets

Complete Guide to Buying Tickets at the Thompson Boling Arena

Have you ever missed out on an event you didn’t know was on, or maybe a show got rescheduled and you didn’t know? We all know the frustration. Missing out on information is the absolute worst, especially if it means you miss out on seeing one of your favorite artists. Well, do we have some good news for you. If you’re based in the Knoxville area, then you must already know about the iconic Thompson Boling Arena, right? This hugely popular venue will be keeping you up to date with all the latest news so you never have to miss out on an announcement again. What can you do you ask? Just order your tickets, here.

The Thompson Boling Arena, located on the campus of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, serves as a prominent multi-purpose facility dedicated to hosting a variety of events, including basketball games, concerts, and other performances. Opened in 1987, the arena has undergone significant renovations, most notably in 2007 and 2008, which enhanced its infrastructure and seating configurations to accommodate modern standards for spectator comfort and event production. With a current seating capacity of approximately 21,678 for basketball events, it ranks among the largest on-campus arenas in the United States, specifically designed for collegiate athletics. This capacity can expand slightly for concerts, reaching up to 22,206 depending on the stage setup and event requirements.

While the Thompson Boling Arena venues popularity continues to grow throughout Knoxville, unfortunately its capacity doesn’t. That means that although the venue is seeing unprecedented numbers of fans flocking through its doors, the tickets for shows are also flying out faster than ever with fans up and down the country learning about this incredible venue. So, to save you any upsets we recommend you get your tickets as early as possible to secure those perfect seats you’ve been thinking of.

This site is not affiliated or sponsored by University of Tennessee or Thompson Boling Arena and is not an official ticket seller of University of Tennessee. This site links to resale tickets for events at the Thompson Boling Arena. See the Disclaimer page.

You can find our full ticket policies here to find out what added perks you can get from your visit. To purchase tickets, simply click the Thompson Boling Arena schedule to scroll through events, or alternatively click Thompson-Boling Arena tickets to get your tickets now.

Thompson Boling Arena tickets

Thompson Boling Arena Upcoming Events

  • 14th Dec 2025: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Winthrop Eagles (Tickets at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 16th Dec 2025: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Louisville Cardinals (Tickets from $210 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 21st Dec 2025: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs (Tickets from $105 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 22nd Dec 2025: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles (Tickets at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 30th Dec 2025: Tennessee Volunteers vs. South Carolina State Bulldogs (Tickets from $73 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 01st Jan 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Florida Gators (Tickets from $53 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 06th Jan 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Texas Longhorns (Date: TBD) (Tickets from $132 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 11th Jan 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Arkansas Lady Razorbacks (Tickets from $53 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 13th Jan 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Texas A&M Aggies (Date: TBD) (Tickets from $104 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 15th Jan 2026: The Harlem Globetrotters (Tickets at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 16th Jan 2026: Rascal Flatts, Lauren Alaina & Chris Lane (Tickets from $57 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 17th Jan 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Kentucky Wildcats (Tickets from $209 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 22nd Jan 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Kentucky Wildcats (Tickets from $53 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 24th Jan 2026: Ghost - The Band (Tickets from $75 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 25th Jan 2026: Nate Bargatze (Tickets from $66 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 29th Jan 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs (Tickets from $53 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 31st Jan 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Auburn Tigers (Tickets from $263 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 03rd Feb 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Mississippi Rebels (Date: TBD) (Tickets from $104 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 05th Feb 2026: Big Time Rush (Tickets from $65 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 12th Feb 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Missouri Tigers (Tickets from $53 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 14th Feb 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. LSU Tigers (Tickets from $105 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 15th Feb 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Texas Longhorns (Tickets from $73 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 17th Feb 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Oklahoma Sooners (Date: TBD) (Tickets from $104 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 19th Feb 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Texas A&M Aggies (Tickets from $53 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 21st Feb 2026: Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire (Tickets from $50 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 22nd Feb 2026: Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire (Tickets from $55 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 27th Feb 2026: Bailey Zimmerman (Tickets from $95 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 28th Feb 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide (Tickets from $210 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 01st Mar 2026: Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball vs. Vanderbilt Commodores (Tickets from $53 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 03rd Mar 2026: Elevation Worship & Steven Furtick (Tickets from $49 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 05th Mar 2026: Eric Church & 49 Winchester (Tickets from $92 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 07th Mar 2026: Tennessee Volunteers vs. Vanderbilt Commodores (Tickets from $136 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 27th Mar 2026: Treaty Oak Revival (Tickets from $111 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 09th Apr 2026: Hardy (Tickets from $68 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 15th Apr 2026: Rod Stewart (Tickets from $126 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 18th Apr 2026: PBR: Pendleton Whiskey Velocity Tour (Tickets from $117 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 30th May 2026: Journey (Tickets from $203 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 18th Jul 2026: Dude Perfect (Tickets from $122 at TicketSqueeze.com)
  • 27th Sep 2026: Weird Al Yankovic (Tickets from $83 at TicketSqueeze.com)

Thompson Boling Arena Venue Information

The Thompson Boling Arena, officially known as Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center following a naming rights agreement, stands as a cornerstone of athletic and entertainment facilities in Knoxville, Tennessee. Situated at 1600 Phillip Fulmer Way on the southern edge of the University of Tennessee campus, it occupies a strategic position adjacent to Neyland Stadium and Lindsey Nelson Stadium, forming part of the university’s comprehensive sports complex. The arena’s address places it within easy reach of Interstate 40, which connects Knoxville to major cities like Nashville and Asheville, enhancing its viability for regional events.

Construction of the arena began in the mid-1980s, with its inaugural use during the 1987-88 basketball season. Named in honor of former University of Tennessee presidents Joseph W. Barker, Edward J. Boling, and B. Marion West, it was initially designed with a basketball-specific capacity of 24,535, making it the largest such facility in the United States at the time. A major renovation in 2007 reduced this to 21,678 seats to incorporate luxury suites and improved concourse areas, while a subsequent $35 million project in 2008 introduced new seating throughout, a center-hung scoreboard, and enhanced graphics. These upgrades, funded through donor campaigns and premium seating revenues, have positioned the arena as a versatile venue capable of hosting not only sports but also conferences, camps, and large-scale performances.

Construction of the arena began in the mid-1980s, with its inaugural use during the 1987-88 basketball season. Named in honor of former University of Tennessee presidents Joseph W. Barker, Edward J. Boling, and B. Marion West, it was initially designed with a basketball-specific capacity of 24,535, making it the largest such facility in the United States at the time. A major renovation in 2007 reduced this to 21,678 seats to incorporate luxury suites and improved concourse areas, while a subsequent $35 million project in 2008 introduced new seating throughout, a center-hung scoreboard, and enhanced graphics. These upgrades, funded through donor campaigns and premium seating revenues, have positioned the arena as a versatile venue capable of hosting not only sports but also conferences, camps, and large-scale performances.

The arena’s integration with campus resources, such as the adjacent Pratt Pavilion practice facility opened in 2006, further solidifies its status as a hub for athletic development and public engagement. Ongoing enhancements continue to prioritize spectator experience, ensuring the Thompson Boling Arena remains a vital asset to the University of Tennessee community and beyond.

Thompson Boling Arena Seating Chart (Basketball)

Thompson Boling Arena Seating Chart (Concert)

Thompson Boling Arena Seating Chart (Center Stage)

Thompson Boling Arena Seating Options

The seating configuration at the Thompson Boling Arena is engineered to provide equitable views across its multi-level design, accommodating over 21,000 patrons for basketball and similar events. The layout features a lower bowl encircling the floor, an upper balcony, and premium enclaves, with variations for concert setups that may convert sections to general admission or adjust for stage placement. Interactive seating charts, available through official ticketing platforms, allow prospective buyers to visualize exact positions, row numbers, and potential sightlines prior to purchase.

Courtside

Courtside seating represents the pinnacle of proximity at the Thompson Boling Arena, positioned directly adjacent to the playing surface for basketball games or the stage for performances. These seats, often designated as rows AA through C or similar premium baselines, offer unobstructed views and an immersive experience, with distances as close as a few feet from the action. Typically limited to 100-200 seats per event, courtside options include padded chairs and dedicated service, making them suitable for corporate groups or high-value attendees. For concerts, these areas may shift to front-row equivalents, enhancing acoustics and visual clarity. Access requires passing through exclusive entryways, and prices reflect the elite status, often starting several hundred dollars per ticket.

Floor

Floor seating extends the courtside luxury to a broader audience, comprising sections that ring the event space in rows such as 1 through 10. These positions provide elevated sightlines just above the baseline or sideline, balancing closeness with comprehensive overviews of the court or stage. In basketball configurations, floor seats capture the energy of player movements and crowd interactions, while concert floors may include reserved rows or transition to standing areas. With approximately 2,000-3,000 seats in this category, they appeal to enthusiasts seeking value in premium access without the full courtside premium.

Lower Level

The lower level, encompassing sections 101 through 134, forms the primary bowl surrounding the floor, offering rows 1 to 25 or equivalent. These seats deliver strong perspectives from all angles, with center court sections like 104, 105, 125, and 126 designated as premium for their alignment with key action zones. Elevation ensures minimal obstructions, and proximity to concessions facilitates convenience. This level houses about 8,000 seats, ideal for families or groups desiring balanced visibility and accessibility via multiple concourse levels.

Upper Level

Upper level seating, in sections 201 through 236 and 301 through 334, occupies the balcony tiers, providing panoramic views from higher elevations. Rows here range from 1 to 20 in the mid-upper (201-236) and extend further in the top tier (301-334), which serves budget-conscious patrons with clear, distant sightlines. While farther from the floor, these positions benefit from the arena’s steep pitch, minimizing neck strain. The upper level accommodates roughly 10,000 seats, suitable for large gatherings where overall event immersion outweighs immediacy.

Suites

Luxury suites, numbering 32 in the north balcony, offer private enclosures for 10 to 16 guests each, complete with refrigerators, locked storage, and flat-screen monitors. Accessed via dedicated elevators, these climate-controlled spaces include in-suite catering options and priority parking, fostering an environment for business or social functions. Suite tickets grant entry to all home basketball games and first rights to concert allocations, emphasizing exclusivity in a capacity that supports intimate viewing of the full arena floor.

Loge

The loge area features 166 side-court seats positioned directly beneath the suites, with private adjoining hospitality zones for enhanced comfort. Rows in loge sections, such as those in the 100-series extensions, provide semi-premium elevation with waiter service and lounge access. This configuration blends the intimacy of lower seating with added amenities like cushioned armchairs, appealing to mid-tier premium seekers who value convenience without full suite isolation.

Students Section

Designated student sections, typically in the upper level corners like 320-334, reserve blocks for University of Tennessee affiliates, promoting school spirit during athletic contests. These areas feature discounted pricing through university passes, with rows optimized for group chanting and signage. While views are angled, the communal atmosphere compensates, drawing over 1,000 students per game. Access often requires valid ID, ensuring priority for campus members.

Thompson Boling Arena Ticket Sources

Acquiring tickets for events at the Thompson Boling Arena involves reliable sources that prioritize security and availability. Official primary outlets handle initial sales, while secondary markets address demand fluctuations. Each channel employs digital verification to prevent fraud, with mobile tickets standard for entry.

Ticketmaster (Primary Tickets)

Ticketmaster serves as the primary ticketing partner for the Thompson Boling Arena, managing sales for University of Tennessee athletics and select concerts. Purchases occur via the Ticketmaster website or app, where users select events, view interactive seating charts, and complete transactions with credit cards or digital wallets. Presale opportunities for season ticket holders precede public on-sales, often announced through university channels. Fees apply but include guarantees for delivery and refunds on cancellations. For basketball games, availability opens months in advance, with dynamic pricing adjusting based on demand.

Box Office

The on-site box office, located at 1600 Phillip Fulmer Way within the arena, operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, extending hours on event days until halftime for athletics. In-person purchases accept cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express, accommodating walk-up sales dependent on remaining inventory. Will call opens two to three hours prior to events, requiring photo ID for retrieval.

Ticket Squeeze (Resale Tickets)

Ticket Squeeze is a trusted resale marketplace for Thompson Boling Arena tickets, offering seats for sold-out events or alternative pricing options. Tickets purchased through Ticket Squeeze come with a 100% money-back guarantee if an event is canceled, and the platform ensures side-by-side seating unless otherwise stated. Prices may be above or below face value, depending on demand, and buyers should verify ticket authenticity. Ticket Squeeze is not affiliated with the venue but provides a reliable option for securing resale tickets.

Ticket Squeeze 4.6/5 rating and highly trusted marketplace

Thompson Boling Arena Ticket Types

Ticket classifications at the Thompson Boling Arena align with event formats, offering granularity in access levels. Categories encompass reserved, experiential, and flexible options, with digital formats facilitating seamless entry.

Sports Tickets

Sports tickets primarily cover reserved seating for Tennessee Volunteers men’s and women’s basketball, as well as volleyball matches. Single-game options range from lower bowl standards to season packages, with student and faculty discounts available. These tickets grant access to the full event duration, including halftime features, and support mobile scanning at multiple gates.

Concert Tickets

Concert tickets vary by artist, including reserved seats in the bowl or floor, with end-stage configurations altering availability. General admission floors permit standing selection, while premium rows ensure assigned spots. Sales open via presales for fan clubs, followed by public release, accommodating capacities up to 22,000 for major acts.

VIP Packages

VIP packages bundle seating with enhancements like pre-show lounges, merchandise, or artist interactions, often in loge or suite areas. Priced higher, they include dedicated entrances and concessions credits, tailored for concerts or high-profile games to elevate the attendee experience.

Seating Tickets

Seating tickets denote assigned positions across all levels, from courtside to upper balconies, ensuring predictable views. These form the core of inventory for structured events, with aisle transfers available for accessibility upon request.

General Admission

General admission tickets apply to select concerts or standing-room events, allowing entry to unreserved floor or pit areas. Patrons arrive early to secure preferred spots, with capacities managed to maintain safety standards.

Resale Tickets

Resale tickets are available through platforms like Ticket Squeeze for events that are sold out or when buyers seek alternative pricing. These tickets may be priced above or below face value, depending on demand, and are guaranteed authentic by trusted resale platforms. Buyers should review seating details, as some resale tickets may have obstructed views or other limitations.

Ticket Squeeze

Ticket Squeeze is renowned and highly-regarded ticketing system which is promoted by some of the top vendors all over the world. They have access to a greater number of tickets which we can give to our readers, meaning you will rarely be met by sold out events. So whether you’re looking at event next month or even next year, you can be sure we’ll have all the tickets you need for an unforgettable experience both at the event and getting the tickets.

Thompson Boling Arena ticket guarantee

Simple downloadable tickets

Everyone knows that when you book tickets, you never print them off until the earliest a few days prior to the event. And what could be worse, sometimes you forget to print them at all. So we thought why not make all of our tickets easily downloadable to any device to completely eliminate the need for printing tickets. After all, we live in a digital age, why not bring tickets into the digital age too? Don’t worry, you’ll still receive everything as normal including your confirmation email and order number, but included in this email will also be your downloadable tickets.

So just sit back, relax, and make sure your device is charged and you’re good to go!

Guaranteed group seating

Very rarely do people attend shows or events alone, and if you do, that’s great! But one struggle of getting tickets is making sure they’re sat next to each other. No one wants to go to a show with their friends sat half way across the venue. Knoxville shows are an experience, and they must be experienced together for a memorable night. Trying to get all your friends and family together for an event is difficult in itself, let us make one thing easier, so your whole group is sat together to enjoy the show.

All you need to do is choose the show, how many tickets you need, and pick which part of the Thompson Boling Arena section you want to be in, and we’ll handle the rest. So now, just enjoy the show.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Never again be disappointed by a last minute cancellation of a show. Sometimes yes, it’s unavoidable and a performer may fall ill. But after that, how the ticket seller handles the situation with the customer is key. If you get your tickets from an unreliable seller, often you won’t be notified and sometimes worse, you won’t even get a refund. We promise to give you up to date information all the way to the start of the show so that you never miss out on the latest information. If an event does get cancelled, you also won’t have to worry as we offer a 100% money-back guarantee on any event cancellations, giving you a full refund of your ticket price.

When you get your seats through Ticket Squeeze and in the unlikely event a show gets postponed, we instantly validate your ticket for the rescheduled date so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of re-booking the show and possibly missing out on the show you’ve been planning and waiting for. All you have to do is keep your ticket, and simply use it for the rescheduled date. Our cancellation policy still remains the same however with a 100% refund for any events which are cancelled.

Guaranteed Authenticity for Thompson Boling Arena Tickets

If you’ve ever bought a ticket that turned out not to be completely authentic, you’ll know better than anyone that this is one of the worst feelings in the world. You’ve paid for a ticket, you’ve organised the trip with friends, you’ve travelled to the venue, only to not be allowed in because you’re ticket is invalid. These tickets are often easy to spot as they are a fraction of the normal price, but not everyone knows that this is because they are fakes. Of course, everyone wants to find the cheapest tickets possible but please never compromise on authenticity. Together with Ticket Squeeze, that’s exactly what you’ll get guaranteeing you 100% authentic tickets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Parking Included in the Ticket?

Parking is not directly included in the ticket price for events at the Thompson Boling Arena; however, ample on-site options are available for purchase, ensuring sufficient capacity for attendees. Designated lots surround the venue, with rates at $10 for general events and $20 for large concerts, accessible via Neyland Drive. Reduced-rate shuttle services from the Ag Campus ($10) operate 90 minutes prior, while free remote parking with trolleys connects from downtown. Rideshare drop-offs occur at designated zones to mitigate congestion.

Where Are the Best Seats at Thompson Boling Arena?

The optimal seats at the Thompson Boling Arena depend on the event, but courtside and lower level center sections (104, 105, 125, 126) consistently offer superior proximity and alignment for basketball, providing direct engagement with the action. For concerts, front-floor or loge positions balance stage visibility and acoustics. Suites and loge areas excel for premium comfort, while upper mid-level seats deliver value with broad panoramas. Interactive charts on Ticketmaster aid in evaluating sightlines.

Are There Any Age Restrictions?

Age restrictions at the Thompson Boling Arena vary by event, with most concerts and sports open to all ages without mandates, though children under two may require lap seating without a ticket. Family-friendly shows encourage adult accompaniment for minors, while certain performances specify 18+ for standing areas. University athletic policies prioritize inclusivity, but specific guidelines appear on event pages via Ticketmaster, ensuring compliance with safety protocols.