Jon M. Huntsman Center

Can you imagine a basketball game so legendary it’s still talked about decades later? Right here at the Jon M. Huntsman Center, that game took place. The Jon M. Huntsman Center opened in 1969 as the Special Events Center. It became the Jon M. Huntsman Center in 1987, named after a prominent local philanthropist. The Huntsman Center isn’t just a sports venue. It’s a historical landmark, etched into the fabric of Salt Lake City. This very arena hosted the epic 1979 NCAA Championship game, the “Dream Match-Up,” between Larry Bird’s Indiana State Sycamores and Magic Johnson’s Michigan State Spartans. This game launched one of basketball’s most iconic rivalries. The Jon M. Huntsman Center has witnessed countless electrifying moments throughout its 50-year history. It’s home to the Utah Utes basketball, gymnastics, and volleyball teams. The Utes men’s basketball team boasts an impressive record at the Huntsman Center, winning over 80% of their games. The “Red Rocks” gymnastics team regularly sells out the arena. They’ve set numerous NCAA attendance records here, including the largest crowd ever for a collegiate gymnastics meet. The Jon M. Huntsman Center has also hosted various events, from concerts featuring artists like The Jackson 5 to lectures by prominent figures such as Stephen Hawking. The arena underwent a significant renovation in 2014. This included a new sound system, energy-efficient lighting, and updated graphics. The Jon M. Huntsman Center isn’t just a building. It is a testament to the power of sports, the energy of a vibrant community, and the enduring legacy of Jon M. Huntsman.