UAB approves exploration of possible Bartow Arena renovations
UAB will officially become a member of the American Athletic Conference next month, making the jump up after 27 years in Conference USA. The athletic programs have been plenty of momentum in recent years and the next step may just be improving Bartow Arena.
The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees voted unanimously Friday in support of UAB exploring possible renovations to the arena which has served as a home to the university's basketball teams, volleyball team, graduations and more since opening in 1988. The vote was for Stage 1 of the proposal with future stages expected including more approvals from the Board of Trustees and sufficient support to fund the proposed changes.
The total scope of the proposed project is estimated to be $20 million. The goal is to "rival American Athletic Conference peer competitor venues."
“The UAB team is excited about the opportunity to once again work with our generous partners on yet another transformational Athletics facility,” UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram said.
The proposal includes construction of a new main entrance to Bartow Arena to upgrade the visual appeal of the exterior of the building. It also could include an expansion of premium seating and hospitality options. A new scoreboard, new ribbon boards and a home for the UAB Athletics Hall of Fame inside the concourse of the arena are also included in the proposal.
“Thanks to the leadership of Mark Ingram and his team, the proven dedication of UAB Blazer fans, and the unwavering support of the University of Alabama System Office and Board of Trustees, we are excited to explore this critical project for our continued growth in athletics and as an institution,” UAB President Ray Watts said. “This is coming at an exciting time as we are on the brink of our teams’ competing for championships in the American Athletic Conference.”
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The UAB men's basketball team just set a program record with 29 wins during the 2022-23 season, making it to the final of the NIT.
“One of my goals in the continued growth of our storied program is to provide our supporters a first-class gameday experience, which requires key updates to Bartow Arena,” UAB men’s basketball coach Andy Kennedy said. “Bartow has provided our program and our fans many incredible moments. Now imagine those same magical moments in an enhanced venue, where you truly can’t wait to be back for the next game.”
The Women’s Basketball team has five regular season Conference USA championships, including winning the 2018 Conference USA regular season title.
“We are excited about the investment in our basketball programs and what that means for our student-athletes, fans and community partners,” women’s basketball coach Randy Norton said. “Renovating Bartow Arena would give us a unique opportunity to build upon past success while solidifying the tradition of excellence established here at UAB.”
UAB will officially become a member of the AAC on July 1.