For the love of the game

Unless you are the offspring of Bill Gates, there is a good chance you don’t watch every game of every sport live—even then, it would be a little difficult. For the average college student, especially those living on campus, cable is difficult to afford. To help, here are a few places around town that may or may not be known to Portland State students for watching any and all sports. Most are located downtown or a short bus ride away that is worth the time and fare.

On Deck Sports Bar and Grill
Mon–Thu, 11 a.m. to midnight
Fri–Sat, 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Sun, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
910 NW 14th Ave.
5 out of 5 stars

This is the place to go to for any sports fan. Everywhere you sit, a TV is clearly visible. Multiple screens surround the bar, a huge 68-inch plasma TV for the most important games and local college and pro jerseys surround the walls. What is really spectacular about this bar is its deck and view. You will not find a better place to relax outside on the rare days of no rain. With a very affordable happy hour, what could be better?

Claudia’s Sports Pub and Grill
Sun–Thu, 11 a.m. to midnight
Fri–Sat, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
3006 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
4 out of 5 stars

Watching sports here is definitely for the fan who likes to kick it old school. Amid the promotional paraphernalia and schedules is a history of softball teams, complete with pictures and trophies that dwarf some of the shorter fans. Hockey is king here, but fantasy footballers have their own domain as well. Everything is reasonably priced all the time, and don’t forget to take a spin in the awesome captain’s chairs. 

Buffalo Wild Wings
Mon–Thu, 11 a.m. to midnight
Fri–Sat, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Sun, 11 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
327 SW Morrison St.
3.5 out of 5 stars

If you like them big, this is the place for you. There are 10 extra-large projection displays that make you feel like you’re at the game if you sit close enough. They have both cable and satellite feeds, so there isn’t any game you could miss. They have 24 draft beers on tap and 50-cent Wing Tuesdays and Thursdays. Right on the TriMet MAX line, this bar is ideal for before and after Portland Trail Blazers games at the Rose Garden. 

Thirsty Lion Pub and Grill
Mon, 11:30 a.m. to midnight
Tue, 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Wed–Fri, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.
Sat, 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.
Sun, 11 a.m. to midnight
71 SW Second Ave.
4 out of 5 stars

With its new chef and live music on Tuesdays through Sundays, this isn’t your typical sports bar. Longtime supporters of Oregon Premier Soccer League and Oregon Sports Union Rugby Club, this is the place to come and watch any and all European Sports. Blazers fans should not feel discouraged—they love you and college sports fans too. 
 
 
Blitz Pearl
Mon–Sun, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
110 NW 10th Ave.
3.5 out of 5 stars

 Walking in from the upper level might confuse the sports nut looking for a game, but head down the particleboard stairs and you walk into a frat house dream. There are all kinds of games to play and watch, including the underrated shuffleboard. Affordable food, fun atmosphere and comfy seating make this place worth your time.  
 

Bitter End Eatery and Pub
Mon–Fri, 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.
Sat–Sun, noon to 2:30 a.m.
1981 W Burnside St.
4.5 out of 5 stars 

When it is not filled to capacity with raving Portland Timbers fans before and after a match, it is the secret sweet spot to watch any game. This is definitely the perfect corner bar that makes you feel at home. The cool, laidback bartenders are worth their weight in gold. Anyone looking for a less-is-more crowd, great food and a comfortable atmosphere, this is the place for you.