BREAKING NEWS: Texas Tech Red Raiders Unveil $1.3 Billion Renovation to United Supermarkets Arena, Redefining the Future of College Basketball
LUBBOCK, Texas — In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent shockwaves through the world of college sports, Texas Tech University unveiled a jaw-dropping $1.3 billion renovation plan for the United Supermarkets Arena. The ambitious project promises to elevate the home of the Red Raiders to one of the premier basketball facilities in the nation, redefining the fan experience and setting a new standard in collegiate athletics.
Texas Tech officials revealed the comprehensive renovation during a press conference on Thursday morning, surrounded by alumni, students, and athletic supporters. The project, which is set to begin construction in early 2026, includes cutting-edge technological enhancements, expanded seating, premium hospitality suites, interactive fan zones, and a dramatic exterior redesign aimed at merging modern aesthetics with Texas heritage.
“This isn’t just a renovation — it’s a reinvention,” said Kirby Hocutt, Texas Tech’s Athletic Director. “We are creating the future of college basketball right here in Lubbock. Our student-athletes, fans, and community deserve a world-class arena, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering.”
One of the most notable features of the renovation will be the introduction of a state-of-the-art “Red Raider Experience Center,” an immersive digital museum celebrating the history and future of Texas Tech basketball. Fans will be able to engage with augmented reality exhibits, historical archives, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
Seating capacity will increase from 15,098 to nearly 19,000, making it one of the largest on-campus basketball arenas in the country. Enhanced VIP lounges and club-level seating will offer luxurious options for donors and season-ticket holders, while updated concession areas and mobile ordering technology will streamline game-day operations.
The renovation will also focus heavily on sustainability, incorporating solar panels, water-saving infrastructure, and locally sourced building materials. Texas Tech has committed to achieving LEED Platinum certification, placing it among the most environmentally conscious arenas in the NCAA.
Funding for the $1.3 billion project comes from a combination of private donations, athletic department revenues, and a new naming rights extension deal with United Supermarkets.
“This is a proud day for Texas Tech,” said President Lawrence Schovanec. “This arena is more than a building — it’s a symbol of our commitment to excellence in athletics, academics, and community.”
The newly transformed United Supermarkets Arena is projected to open in time for the 2029–2030 basketball season. As construction begins, excitement is already building across Raider Nation, as fans look forward to a new era in Texas Tech basketball history.