Murray State Athletics Receives Board of Regents Approval to Begin Design Phase of CFSB Center Renovation

One of the largest projects in Murray State Athletics history took a major step forward on Friday afternoon when the University's Board of Regents formally approved plans to begin the design phase of the renovation to the CFSB Center during their December meeting.

The Racers formally broke ground on the first phase of the significant eight-figure project earlier in the day in conjunction with the naming rights ceremony of the Leon Owens Winner's Circle & Performance Center. This is the first major renovation since the facility was opened in 1998 and is being funded through private donor contributions.

"Today is a monumental day in the history of Murray State Athletics, and I am thrilled that the design phase of the home of Racer Basketball has been formally approved to begin," Director of Athletics Nico Yantko said. "We are incredibly grateful for our Board of Regents and their commitment to our shared vision of excellence and belief in our plans to transform our department. Racer Nation once again answered the call with their unwavering generosity to help us make this project possible, and we are beyond thankful for all of our fans for supporting our progress. This arena, once completed, will be one of the nicest facilities not only in our state, but in the country, and we are excited to get to work."

A primary vision of the entire project is on the enhancement of the overall fan experience and entertainment through new premium areas. Patrons will see a total overhaul in the seating structure in the lower level of the arena, including seating enhancements and the lower bowl becoming permanent seating in the shape of a horseshoe, moving on from the current retractable bleacher system currently in place with the exception of the student section to allow for other auxiliary events such as University commencement, concerts and more.

"This is a transformational project for both the men's and women's basketball programs, the community and the University," head men's coach Steve Prohm said. "Today was a massive day for all of us, and we are excited to see what the future looks like."

"The new arena project is going to have a huge impact on recruiting and be an amazing facility to play in," head women's coach Rechelle Turner said. "From the new amenities, to the new revenue it will bring in, the renovation will help us sell our program and make our home even better."

For the first time in Murray State history, Racer fans will have the ability to watch a game from the comfort of the anticipated 1,000 premium seats that will be installed. The conceptual plans also include premium loge boxes throughout the top of the seating bowl that would create a world-class game day experience while providing luxurious, private spaces for entertainment, while additional ledge seating and new courtside opportunities will bring the fans closer to the action.

As part of the anticipated renovation plans, Murray State envisions the addition of a first-of-its-kind courtside bunker club for patrons to take in the game in a premium setting right on the baseline of the court. The club will feature a rustic Kentucky feel and will showcase a high-class bar and food offerings, comfortable seating, special pregame team experience and an unforgettable view of the court.

New revenue opportunities will come from the state-of-the-art ribbon boards that will be installed throughout the new façade inside the lower bowl, further contributing to the Racers' ability to thrive in the new NCAA landscape and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL).

Additional enhancements and amenities include one of the largest dedicated basketball performance spaces in the country that includes a nutrition oasis, rehab/prehab space, a hydrotherapy room, an NIL studio, and a player development/academic space.

Over the coming months, the department will be sending out communication regarding progress on the venue, premium seating processes, renewals and more. If you are interested in new premium seating, please fill out the interest form by clicking HERE or contact the Murray State Ticket Office at (270) 809-3000.

A full overview of the exciting new vision for the home of Racer Basketball can be found by CLICKING HERE.

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Murray State University Athletics

Murray State Athletics Receives Board of Regents Approval to Begin Design Phase of CFSB Center Renovation

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