Huntsman Basketball Facility embodies Utah’s hoops dreams. It is more than just a building. It is a legacy etched in hardwood and reverberating cheers.
The Jon M. Huntsman Center stands as a landmark. It is a premier venue for sports and entertainment. Since 1969, this arena has been home to unforgettable moments. The Huntsman Basketball Facility provides an imposing home advantage for Utah teams.
Imagine the roar of the crowd. Picture the squeak of sneakers on the polished floor. Feel the electric energy as the Runnin’ Utes take the court. More than eight million fans have witnessed the Runnin’ Utes in action. They hold an impressive 686-180 all-time record here. The Huntsman Center is more than a venue. It is a fortress.
Women’s basketball is also a force here. They boast an imposing 561-134 record in the JMHC. Ten seasons went without a loss in the Huntsman Center. This includes a program-best 16-0 mark in 2022-23. From January 1995 to February 1997, they had a 28-game home winning streak.
But basketball is only part of the story. The Huntsman Center is synonymous with gymnastics excellence. Every NCAA gymnastics attendance record has been set here. This includes 16,019 fans for a meet against Michigan in 2015. Utah led the nation in gymnastics attendance for 37 of 43 years. They led all women’s college sports in attendance 11 times since 2010. Utah gymnastics had a 24-year home win streak. It lasted 170 meets without a loss.
Volleyball has called the Huntsman Center home since 2013. The team has a 93-54 record in the venue. A record crowd of 4,110 watched Utah host BYU in 2019. The Utes have drawn seven crowds exceeding 3,000 since moving here.
The Huntsman Center is a championship venue. It has hosted numerous NCAA Championship events. In men’s basketball, it ranks third nationally. It has hosted 81 NCAA Tournament games. The 1979 NCAA Basketball Championship “Dream Match-Up” occurred here. It featured Larry Bird and Magic Johnson.
The arena underwent a $6 million renovation in 2014. A super-grid ceiling structure was installed. A state-of-the-art sound system was added. Brighter, energy-efficient LED lighting was installed. A maple wood floor was installed. Updated graphics wrap the walls. New video boards were installed in 2017 for $4.1 million. The current wood floor was installed in 2024.
Underground tunnels connect the arena to the HPER complex. The Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Center is part of this complex. It houses the men’s and women’s basketball programs. The Sorenson Legacy Foundation High Performance Center is also here.
The Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility is a $36 million structure. It features practice courts, a legacy hall, and glass-enclosed upper levels. A rooftop terrace offers panoramic views.
The Kem and Carolyn Gardner Legacy Hall greets visitors. Banners display former Ute basketball greats. A pictorial history lines the walls. Expansive balconies overlook the practice gyms. The courts are replicas of the Huntsman Center court.
Separate theaters, player lounges, and locker rooms enhance the facility. The head coaches have luxurious offices with private balconies. The rooftop terrace boasts a garden, fire pit, and Utah-themed furniture.
The Huntsman Basketball Facility continues to inspire athletes and fans. It stands as a testament to Utah’s sporting legacy. As you leave, remember the echoes of triumph. Remember the dedication etched into every brick. The Huntsman Basketball Facility is more than just a building. It is a Utah story.