ESPN CONFIRMED: Indiana Pacers Approves $755 Million Stadium Renovation Project for 2025 and …see more

In a monumental step toward redefining the live basketball experience in the heart of the Midwest, the Indiana Pacers have officially approved a $755 million renovation project for Gainbridge Fieldhouse, ESPN has confirmed. Set to begin in 2025, the comprehensive upgrade will modernize one of the NBA’s most storied arenas and position Indianapolis as a premier destination for global sports and entertainment events.

A New Chapter for Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Originally opened in 1999, Gainbridge Fieldhouse is widely respected for preserving the charm of basketball’s roots while offering a strong fan atmosphere. This renovation, however, aims to transform the venue into a next-generation arena without losing its historic character.

Key elements of the renovation include:

• A new glass-enclosed atrium and public plaza, designed to host fan events year-round

• Completely redesigned concourses, with modern dining, retail, and interactive fan zones

• Expanded seating capacity and upgraded premium suites

• An immersive scoreboard and 360-degree ribbon boards, using cutting-edge display tech

• Smart technology integration, including AI-powered crowd management and app-based services

• Eco-conscious enhancements, such as solar panel arrays and advanced water systems

Pacers owner Herbert Simon remarked:

“This project is about more than just basketball. It’s about honoring Indiana’s deep basketball heritage while building a world-class venue for generations of Hoosiers to enjoy.”

Community-Backed and State-Supported

The renovation will be funded through a public-private partnership involving:

• A substantial contribution from the Pacers Sports & Entertainment group

• Funding from the City of Indianapolis and State of Indiana, focused on economic development

• Naming rights extensions, corporate partnerships, and new sponsorships

• Revenue projections from increased tourism and event traffic

Local officials expect the project to generate more than $1.5 billion in long-term economic impact, particularly in downtown Indianapolis, and support thousands of jobs through its construction and operation phases.

Construction Timeline and Event Strategy

Renovations will begin in late 2025, with work scheduled primarily in the NBA offseason to minimize disruption. The arena will remain open during the 2025–26 and 2026–27 seasons, with full completion anticipated by early 2028.

The newly upgraded fieldhouse will be equipped to host:

• Future NBA All-Star Games (Indianapolis hosted in 2024, and another bid is expected post-renovation)

• March Madness regional and Final Four tournaments

• Major esports and entertainment events

• Expanded youth sports tournaments and community programs

Beyond Basketball

As part of the renovation effort, the Pacers are also expanding their community outreach:

• Launching a new Youth Hoops Training Center adjacent to the arena

• Partnering with local schools to promote careers in sports tech and event management

• Committing $25 million toward downtown revitalization and urban beautification efforts

Final Word

With the $755 million renovation now confirmed, the Indiana Pacers are setting the standard for how a franchise can modernize while staying true to its roots. For a team born in the basketball heartland, the message is clear: Indiana is all in — on the court, in the city, and into the future.