IU Indy building ‘jewel box’ of an arena it sees as staple of Indianapolis sports

INDIANAPOLIS — A new arena, dubbed "The Jim" in honor of Jim Morris, is being constructed by IU Indianapolis to become a premier mid-major program. The athletic director, Luke Bosso, architect Brett Hatchett, and RATIO Architects President Bill Browne provided a tour of the under-construction arena. Scheduled to open in the fall, the 130,000-square-foot facility will host basketball and volleyball teams, and also serve as office space for IU Indy athletics and USA Track and Field.

With a seating capacity of 4,200, the arena will feature retractable seating, allowing the facility to host community events and high school sports. The design focuses on visibility, with fans able to see the city skyline and natural light entering through the walls. The arena's box-like shape and close back end zones provide shooters with an ideal environment, making it a "shooter's dream."

Costing $110 million, the arena will also include a weight room, recovery room, athletic training room, and study lounge for student-athletes. Athletic director Bosso and architect Hatchett expressed optimism about the fall opening, emphasizing that the facility will enhance the city's reputation in sports.