Didn’t Senator Nat G. Kiefer have a vision when he championed this arena? The Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena stands as a testament to his dedication. It is a hub of sports and entertainment. Let’s delve into the story behind this iconic landmark.
The Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena’s story began in 1983. It was initially known simply as the University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena. In 1987, it was renamed to honor Senator Nat G. Kiefer. He was a Louisiana State Senator who greatly supported UNO. Kiefer secured state funding for the arena’s construction. His district included the UNO campus.
Senator Kiefer served as a Louisiana State legislator from 1969 to 1985. His colleagues knew him for his effective leadership. The arena was a 20-year project that began in 1964. Kiefer’s efforts helped bring it to completion.
Senator Kiefer once said he felt good when he rode past the arena. He believed the time and effort invested were worthwhile. Sadly, Senator Kiefer died in 1985 at the young age of 46. His family takes pride in the arena that bears his name.
The Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena has a seating capacity of 8,933. It serves as the home court for the New Orleans Privateers basketball teams. Both the men’s and women’s teams have played here since 1983. They only took a break between 2005 and 2008.
Beyond basketball, the Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena has hosted diverse events. The 1991 NCAA Women’s basketball Final Four took place here. The University of Tennessee triumphed over the University of Virginia. The Sun Belt Conference basketball tournaments were held here between 2014 and 2019. The arena also hosted the men’s tournament in 2002.
Larry Bird scored a career-high 60 points here in 1985. He played against the Atlanta Hawks. The Harlem Globetrotters have also graced this arena.
The Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena has hosted boxing matches. Regis Prograis and William Silva fought here in 2018. MMA events have also been held here. UFC 27 took place at the arena in 2000.
Roller derby is another sport showcased here. The Big Easy Rollergirls and the New Orleans Brass Roller Derby call this place home. These games include the Big Easy Rollergirls’ annual “SweatFest” tournament.
The UNO Aquatic Center is located within the arena grounds. It has hosted numerous swimming and diving events. These include Sugar Bowl Swimming meets and AAU National Championships.
The New Orleans Privateers volleyball team played here from 2008 to 2011. Wrestling tournaments have also taken place in the Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena.
World Championship Wrestling held its Halloween Havoc pay-per-view here in 1993. Ring of Honor wrestling has also hosted events here. All Elite Wrestling brought its Dynamite show to the arena in 2022.
The arena has welcomed numerous concerts. Music legends like AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, and Prince have performed here. Sting performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra here in 2010.
Other events include Disney on Ice and Sesame Street Live. Even political figures like Bill Clinton and Pope John Paul II have appeared here.
Hurricane Katrina caused substantial damage in 2005. The Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena underwent extensive repairs. It reopened in 2008 with Disney’s High School Musical: The Ice Tour.
The Senator Nat G. Kiefer University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena continues to be a vibrant part of New Orleans. It honors Senator Kiefer’s legacy. It serves as a center for sports, entertainment, and community engagement.