The 2,400-seat John J. "Taps" Gallagher Center means different things to different people. To Purple Eagle fans, it means great atmosphere, roaring crowds and Niagara victories. To opponents, it means intimidation, deafening noise and a likely defeat.
Niagara University's on-campus facility has been the home for the school's men's basketball programs since Nov. 30, 1949, the women's since its inaugural season of 1974-75 and the volleyball team since its first season in 1977. Niagara has enjoyed a tremendous home-court advantage in the friendly confines of the Gallagher Center over the years.
Originally named the Student Center, it was renamed on May 23, 1982, in honor of the former athletics director and basketball coach at Niagara. In the summer of 1998, the Gallagher Center under went a $1.3 million renovation that included a new floor, bleachers and decor. In 1995, the Gallagher Center also received improved lighting. Banners featuring Niagara's NCAA and National Invitation Tournament appearances were added in 1996-97 while banners marking the accomplishments of the women's basketball program were added in 1997-98.
On the outside of the Gallagher Center, fans are welcomed by the Niagara Hall of Fame which highlights historical moments in the Niagara athletics, as well as plaques depicting Purple Eagles who have been inducted into the Niagara Hall of Fame.
