Picture this: a college town that's not just a place for hitting the books and cheering at games, but a sun-soaked paradise blending stunning landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and electric sports vibes. That's Tucson, Arizona, and it's just been crowned the fourth-best college town in the nation by seasoned college basketball writer Andy Katz from NCAA.com. But here's where it gets controversial—does this ranking truly capture what makes a town 'top-tier,' or is it all about the hype? Let's dive in and explore why Tucson earned this spot, and maybe uncover some surprises along the way.
On a recent Monday, Katz unveiled his top 10 list, placing Tucson at number four overall. It clinched the top spot in the West, outshining other contenders but trailing behind Madison, Wisconsin; Austin, Texas; and Gainesville, Florida. Interestingly, among the Big 12 Conference schools—which is a major collegiate sports league featuring powerhouse teams like those from Arizona and Kansas—only Lawrence, Kansas, home to the University of Kansas Jayhawks, made the cut alongside Tucson. Katz specifically spotlighted the basketball programs from Arizona and Florida as standout mentions in his national rankings, highlighting how these teams elevate their hometowns.
One of the standout reasons Katz gave for Tucson's high ranking is the legendary McKale Center, which he described as one of the finest arenas in the country. For beginners, think of McKale as the heart-pounding stadium where Arizona Wildcats basketball games come alive—it's not just a venue, but a cauldron of energy that turns fans into an unstoppable force. Katz had previously ranked McKale as the ninth-best college basketball arena nationwide, and he even placed the Zona Zoo—the Wildcats' notoriously loud and passionate student section—as the seventh-best in the nation. This isn't just about the building; it's about the atmosphere that makes every game unforgettable.
Tucson boasts a wealth of attractions that Katz touched on, making it a prime destination for students, alumni, and visitors alike. As he noted in his earlier piece on McKale's top-10 status, much of the credit goes to the late Arizona head coach Lute Olson, whose coaching prowess turned Tucson into a national hotspot for basketball enthusiasts. Olson's legacy helped transform the city into a must-visit spot, drawing crowds from far and wide.
And this is the part most people miss: Katz's list was shared in a tweet by NCAA March Madness, complete with a map emoji and a photo, emphasizing Tucson's appeal as a 'prime destination.' In his own words, Katz summed it up perfectly: 'There's so much to like: the weather, hiking in the mountains, the food, and McKale is one of the best arenas.' Let's break that down for clarity—starting with the weather, which is mild enough to allow hiking for eight or nine months out of the year. The surrounding mountains aren't just pretty backdrops; they're iconic landmarks that offer endless trails for outdoor lovers, from beginners to seasoned adventurers.
Then there's the food scene, which Katz highlighted as a major draw. Tucson and San Antonio, Texas, are the only U.S. cities recognized as UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy—a prestigious designation from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization that celebrates places with rich culinary traditions. This means Tucson is a foodie's dream, blending Southwestern flavors with global influences. Of course, it's subjective—what one person raves about as the best taco joint might not impress another. Katz didn't specify his favorites from his visits covering Arizona games, and that's fair; tastes vary by era, whether you're an alum reminiscing about old haunts or a current student discovering new spots.
But wait, Katz didn't even scratch the surface of everything Tucson offers. For instance, the area is a gateway to fantastic day trips, like exploring nearby deserts or historic sites, turning it into a regional adventure hub. Plus, unlike many smaller college towns, Tucson features luxury resorts where you can unwind in style—think spa retreats or upscale hotels that cater to those seeking a bit of pampering amid the academic hustle.
Now, here's where things might spark some debate: Is Katz's ranking fair, or does it overlook other gems like smaller towns with tighter-knit communities? Some might argue that Tucson's size and amenities give it an unfair edge, while others could counter that true college town greatness lies in affordability and local charm. What do you think—does Tucson's blend of sports, outdoors, and eats make it deserving of this top spot, or should another town take the crown? Do you agree with Katz's picks, or do you have a different favorite college town in mind? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear your take and start a conversation!
