Oakland Arena
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The Oakland Arena is an indoor arena in Oakland, California. It was originally constructed as the Oakland Coliseum Arena in 1966. Over the years, though, the stadium became increasingly outdated, lacking the luxuries of newer arenas. Rather than building a new stadium in Oakland - or, for that matter, in San Francisco or San Jose, as some wanted - the decision was made to proceed with a $121 million renovation that tore down much of the old arena, leaving the external walls, roof and foundation, along with a few other features, intact, and then building a new seating bowl within the older confines. The renovation began in mid-1996 and was completed in time for the Golden State Warriors to return in the fall of 1997 (they played the intervening season at the San Jose Arena). The new arena sits 19,200 for basketball and 17,000 for ice hockey.
The arena has been home to the Golden State Warriors since 1966, excepting the one year hiatus. The Cal Golden Bears have played a few games at the arena over the years, as well. The Coliseum also hosted the California Seals (also known as the Oakland Seals and California Golden Seals at various times) of the NHL from 1967-1976. The Oakland Skates, a professional roller hockey team, also played here from 1993 to 1995.