A rendering of what the Marriott Center will look like after renovations are finished at the end of the summer. It will include new LED scoreboards and lower-bowl seating. (BYU Athletics)
BYU announced plans to renovate the Marriott Center, adding new, lower-bowl seats, the same seats found on the lower north side, and state-of-the-art LED video boards. The Marriott Center scoreboard, likewise, will be replaced with a state-of-the-art board.
When the construction is complete the Marriott Center will house 19,000, a decrease of 1,900.
'We look forward to these exciting upgrades to the Marriott Center,' said Larry Duffin, special events director. The new LED boards and improved seating throughout the lower bowl are part of BYU's ongoing efforts to ensure that the Marriott Center remains a vital part of campus for years to come.'
In larger news, BYU also announced the construction of a state-of-the-art Marriott Center Annex, a new all-in-one training and practice facility that will be 38,000 square feet. The annex will feature a replica of the Marriott Center floor and added shooting areas on both ends of the court. It will also include a strength and conditioning center; a training room with hydrotherapy; office suites for men's and women's basketball; meeting rooms; team lounge and study areas; and a basketball hall of honor.
The Annex is being generously funded by private donors, and cost of the the project is being withheld.
A rendering of the new BYU basketball Marriott Center Annex. Construction is to begin this summer and end in late 2016. (BYU Athletics)
'I am very appreciative to the BYU administration, the athletic administration and those who have worked tirelessly to make the new practice facility a reality,' BYU head coach Dave Rose said. 'I also want to thank the many donors who have been so kind and generous — their support has been invaluable. This facility is a major commitment to our basketball program. It will enhance recruiting, the student-experience and the development of our players.'
Construction on the Annex is anticipated to start in the summer of 2015 and end fall 2016.