FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — The Fresno State Bulldogs basketball team returned to Selland Arena, on Sunday, Nov. 30, for the first time in almost two decades.

Fans were thrilled to be back in the historic venue, with many reminiscing about past games.

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“I’m very excited to be back.” said Henry Hinkle, a Bulldogs fan. “I remember coming here as a kid and it’s good to be back in Selland Arena.”

The team used Selland Arena from 1966 through 2003.

“I just have a lot of memories, of seeing the different people from all over the valley, come down 99 just to watch us play,” Chris Jeffries, former Bulldogs player, said. “It’s a great feeling.”

The move aims to reignite fan enthusiasm, which has waned since the team relocated to the Save Mart Center.

Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer emphasized the city’s efforts to revitalize downtown Fresno and boost support for the team.

“We have a rebirth of our downtown Fresno and we’re trying to recreate the excitement for Bulldog basketball,” Dyer said.

Selland Arena, known for its record of nearly 50 consecutive sellouts, was filled with excitement.

The game held the highest box score of the season, holding 4,374 fans.

“This is where Bulldog Basketball was born and you can tell by the excitement of the crowd that they’re excited to see it back,” Dyer said.

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The Bulldogs played California State University Bakersfield and lost 76-71.