Kansas City, Mo. – The University of Missouri-Kansas City and the City of Kansas City have partnered to renovate historic Municipal Auditorium for the upcoming college basketball season.
UMKC men’s basketball will be playing the bulk of its home games at the historic venue in 2013-14, with a new and improved look to the arena. The $5 million renovation includes new video boards, LED scorer’s table, sound system, lighting, seating in the lower level and electrical upgrades.
“UMKC is Kansas City’s university, and we want the ‘Roos to be Kansas City’s team. That’s true for all sports, but particularly basketball, given our community’s historic ties to and love for college basketball,” said Leo E. Morton, UMKC chancellor. “That’s why we’re making the big move downtown, and making a big move to capture the community’s imagination and passion with a new coach and a new conference.”
Head Coach Kareem Richardson, who enters his first year at the helm, will usher the ‘Roos into their first season in the Western Athletic Conference. He hopes an up-tempo playing style and renewed fan base will provide a home-court advantage in the refurbished arena.
“We are extremely delighted to have the majority of our home games at Municipal,” Richardson said. “The improvements that will take place there will certainly enhance the fan experience. We are confident with the support of the community that we can make Municipal Auditorium the best home court advantage in Western Athletic Conference.”
The two new LED video boards, manufactured and installed by TS Sports, are approximately 47 feet wide and 12 ½ feet tall, while the LED scorer’s table display area is approximately 40 feet long and will sit courtside.
The new sound system will feature a more modern, clear sound and have more versatility for different events that take place in the arena.
The new lighting system will be placed on both sides of the arena, and at a 45 degree angle in the corners, replacing the old overhead lights. The historic Municipal ceiling will now be easily seen, while the lighting will improve the look of televised events and photography.
The seats in the lower level will be upgraded to new chair backs with arm rests and cup holders. The color of the seats will also be changed to grey, providing a more neutral background for the on-court action.
Plans for other future renovations to Municipal Auditorium are still in the negotiation phase.
Season tickets for the 2013-14 men’s basketball campaign are on sale now, as the ‘Roos tip-off the new era on November 1 in an exhibition game against Rockhurst. For more details and to become a ‘Roos season ticket holder, visit the men’s basketball ticket information page or call the UMKC ticket office at (816) 23-KCTIX. Also check out the new UMKC All-Sports Pass, a package that includes 50 vouchers for general admission access to any UMKC home event.