BLOOMINGTON, IN – Indiana University (IU) today unveiled plans for a transformative $698.4 million renovation of Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, the historic centerpiece of Hoosier basketball and a shrine to college hoops tradition. This bold project, the largest single athletic facility investment in IU’s history, aims to blend architectural preservation with cutting-edge innovation, ensuring that the arena remains a beacon for fans, players, and recruits for decades to come.
Originally opened in 1971, Assembly Hall has long been lauded for its vertical design, deafening acoustics, and the sense of nostalgia that fills every corner. But after over five decades of wear, officials say the time for comprehensive renewal has arrived.
“This isn’t just a renovation — it’s a reinvention,” said IU Athletic Director Monica Weitzman during a press conference attended by alumni, boosters, and media. “We are preserving the soul of Assembly Hall, but enhancing every square inch to meet the expectations of a modern sports and entertainment venue.”
Key components of the renovation include a dramatic new glass façade entrance on the south end, opening into a spacious, light-filled Hoosier Heritage Atrium that will house the IU Basketball Hall of Champions. The atrium will feature interactive exhibits, trophies, historic artifacts, and a rotating gallery of iconic game footage, blending tradition with technology.
Inside, every seat will be replaced with modern, cushioned seating, improving comfort while retaining the hall’s distinctive steep-banked layout. For the first time in venue history, luxury suites and club seating will be installed, offering fans premium viewing options along with gourmet concessions and private lounges. Technological upgrades include a new state-of-the-art video scoreboard, 360-degree ribbon boards, enhanced sound systems, and arena-wide high-speed Wi-Fi.
Perhaps most striking is the new subterranean player development wing, which will feature a hyper-modern strength and conditioning facility, two full-size practice courts, recovery spas, a biometric performance lab, and dedicated film rooms. “This will be the finest basketball training complex in the country,” said men’s basketball head coach Michael Woodson. “It’s a game-changer for our student-athletes.”
Women’s head coach Teri Moren echoed the sentiment: “This project proves that IU is investing equally in all programs. Our players deserve the best, and they’re going to get it.”
Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2026, following the conclusion of the 2025-26 basketball season, with phased work allowing games to continue during renovation. The project is slated for completion by late 2028.
The renovation is being funded through a mix of private donations, athletic department revenues, and long-term facility bonds. The university confirmed that no state taxpayer funds will be used. Lead gifts have already been committed by several prominent IU alumni and supporters, with naming rights for key spaces still open.
As the Hoosier faithful look to the future, one thing is clear: Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall is not being replaced — it’s being reborn. And in Bloomington, where basketball borders on religion, the cathedral is about to shine brighter than ever.
