Eight-Figure Renovation of the CFSB Center Officially Begins

The renovation of the CFSB Center, home of Racer men's and women's basketball and the regional hub for high-level entertainment and events, officially began on Monday morning as Murray State Athletics looks to uniquely reimagine the venue in a new era of intercollegiate athletics.

Undergoing its first major renovation since the facility was opened in 1998, the massive eight-figure project is anticipated to be complete in time for the start of the 2026-27 basketball season and is being funded through private donor support.

"The CFSB Center is extremely important to our University, hosting our annual commencement ceremonies and numerous other campus functions while primarily serving as home to our storied basketball programs," University President Dr. Ron Patterson said. "We are grateful for Director of Athletics Nico Yantko and his team, our Board of Regents, our alumni and each of our investors who have come together to help make this project possible."

A primary focus of the entire project is the enhancement of the overall fan experience. Patrons will see a total overhaul in the seating structure in the lower level of the arena, including the lower bowl becoming permanent seating in the shape of a horseshoe, moving on from the current retractable bleacher system currently in place.

"Today is a transformational day in the history of our department and for our entire University, and it has been made possible by the incredible support of all of Racer Nation," Director of Athletics Nico Yantko said. "This eight-figure renovation will create new, reoccurring revenue streams and have a transformational impact on our student-athlete and fan experience, while creating one of the premiere basketball and entertainment venues in our region."

With the horse-shoe shaped bowl complete, each seat will increase in size from the current offering and will feature a cup holder.

For the first time in Murray State history, Racer fans will have the ability to watch a game from the comfort of one of the more than 1,000 premium seats that will be installed. New loge boxes throughout the top of the seating bowl will 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.

The Department of Athletics has begun the premium seating sales process for those interested in loge box seating for either five or seven years. For more information on how to purchase a loge box, CLICK HERE.

Murray State will also be building 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, 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.

Additional enhancements include the modernization and addition of concessions and retail activations, including grab-and-go style stands, to improve traffic flow and expand offerings.

With the renovation underway, the Department of Athletics has also embarked on a bold, comprehensive fundraising campaign, Leading The Pack, to further position itself for the future by investing in student-athlete success and wellness, revenue share and competitive resources and world-class facilities.

With the campaign's goal set at $100 million, Murray State has raised $37 million towards the initiatives long-term target during the silent phase of the campaign. To learn more about the campaign, CLICK HERE.

The Racer Club plays a crucial role in helping support student-athlete scholarships, general operating budget, and facility enhancements. Investors play a critical role in funding the student-athlete experience and the competitive success of Murray State Athletics programs and student-athletes.

For more information on how to join the Racer Club, call (270) 809-3517 or click HERE.

Follow the Racers on X (@MSURacers), Instagram (@RacersAthletics) and Facebook to stay up-to-date on all that is happening with Murray State Athletics.

Murray State University Athletics

Eight-Figure Renovation of the CFSB Center Officially Begins

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