Purdue Announces $800 Million Mackey Arena Renovation Project
West Lafayette, Ind. – May 30, 2025 — Purdue University today unveiled plans for a transformative $800 million renovation of Mackey Arena, the storied home of the Boilermakers men’s and women’s basketball programs. The comprehensive overhaul, set to begin in 2026, marks the most ambitious athletic facility upgrade in the university’s history.
Originally opened in 1967, Mackey Arena has long stood as one of college basketball’s most iconic venues. The new renovation plan seeks to preserve its legendary atmosphere while modernizing its infrastructure and amenities to meet the evolving needs of student-athletes, fans, and the greater Purdue community.
“Mackey Arena is the heart of Purdue athletics,” said university president Mung Chiang during the announcement. “This investment ensures that our student-athletes have world-class facilities and that our fans continue to enjoy an unmatched game-day experience.”
Key features of the renovation will include expanded seating capacity, state-of-the-art locker rooms, enhanced training and rehabilitation facilities, improved concessions and restrooms, and upgraded accessibility throughout the arena. A new high-definition video board, premium seating options, and a dedicated hall of fame area honoring Purdue basketball legends will also be introduced.
The project will unfold in multiple phases to minimize disruption during basketball seasons, with completion expected by 2030. Purdue officials confirmed that home games will continue to be played at Mackey throughout the renovation period.
“This is about honoring our past while preparing for the future,” said athletic director Mike Bobinski. “Mackey Arena has been the site of incredible memories for generations of Boilermakers. These upgrades will make sure the next generation experiences something even more extraordinary.”
The renovation will be funded through a combination of private donations, corporate partnerships, and university resources. Purdue has already launched a major fundraising campaign to support the initiative, with several prominent alumni and supporters pledging early contributions.
Fans, former players, and community leaders have responded enthusiastically to the announcement. “Mackey is sacred ground,” said Purdue basketball great Glenn Robinson. “It deserves to be taken care of, and this project is going to keep it elite for decades to come.”
In addition to its role as a basketball hub, Mackey Arena hosts numerous university events and community gatherings throughout the year. The modernization aims to strengthen its role as a multi-use facility that benefits all of West Lafayette and beyond.
As Purdue builds on its basketball tradition and national profile, the Mackey Arena renovation symbolizes a bold vision for the future of Boilermaker athletics.
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