BYU broke ground on the Marriott Center Annex on Monday morning.
An official rendering of the Marriott Center Annex. The building will be completed for Fall 2016. (BYU Athletic Department)
The new 38,000 square-foot building will directly connect to the Marriott Center's east side and replace the road that currently runs between the arena and the BYU Broadcasting building. Among its many features the Annex will sport a replica of the Marriott Center floor with additional shooting areas, a strength and conditioning center, a training room with hydrotherapy, office suites, meeting rooms, team lounges, study areas and a Hall of Honor that showcases the history of BYU basketball.
'I'm grateful to this university that we have incredible facilities,' BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe said in a press release. 'The spirit of this campus is second to none. I'm so grateful for the Board of Trustees that so generously allow us to have resources to make this the best university in the country.'
Holmoe was joined by athletic department staff, coaches, athletes and BYU President Kevin J Worthen at the groundbreaking. Also present were representatives from Wadman Corporation from Ogden, Utah. Wadman Corporation was recently selected as the contractor for the project.
'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 men's basketball head coach Dave Rose said. 'This facility is a major commitment to our basketball program. It will enhance our student-athlete experience, the development of our players and recruiting.'
The first-floor plan for the Annex. It will feature a replica court and training facilities. (BYU Athletic Department)
In 10 full seasons under Rose, the BYU men's basketball team has won at least 20 games per season and qualified for the postseason each year. In 14 seasons under Jeff Judkins, the BYU women's basketball team has won 20 games nine times and reached the postseason 11 times. The two teams have combined for 27 first-team all-conference selections and six conference championships.
President Worthen said the Annex is about continuing that excellence.
'We have a commitment to excellence,' Worthen said in the press release. 'On the one hand we require from student-athletes, coaches and faculty. But it is also true that we want the preparation to be excellent, and that requires we provide the facilities.'
Construction on the Annex will begin immediately and it is projected to be completed fall 2016.