Sept. 17, 2009

• Photo Renderings

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The University Board of Regents approved the schematic designs today (Thursday, Sept. 17) for a new Basketball Player Development Center for both University of Michigan basketball programs. The designs were developed by Jickling Lyman Powell Associates, assisted by Sink Combs Dethlefs.

The facility, to be built adjacent to Crisler Arena, will provide approximately 57,000 gross square feet, including two basketball practice courts, team locker rooms for players and coaches, athletic medicine and hydrotherapy.

"The basketball player development center is truly a multi-purpose facility that is another step in sustaining the growth of our athletic department," said Bill Martin, the Donald R. Shepherd Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. "The facility will add needed flexibility for student-athletes -- especially with the men and women's basketball programs -- as they set their academic and athletic schedules."

The second floor will accommodate men's and women's coaching staff and administrative support functions, as well as film-viewing rooms and strength and conditioning space.

The proposed design calls for a new entrance to Crisler Arena for players and coaches at the playing floor level and a new, dramatic Hall of Fame in the entry lobby. The lobby would provide a distinct identity for the basketball programs while harmonizing with the existing basketball arena and Michigan Stadium.

"We are truly excited about this project and we can't wait for the start of construction," said Martin.

Construction will be phased over a two-year period and completed in fall 2011.

Approximately 150 parking spaces will be lost during construction. However, a portion of spaces -- about 55 -- will be available upon completion of the project.

The estimated cost of the project is $23.2 million. Funding will be provided through private donations and Athletic Department resources.

Q U O T E S

Michigan Men's Basketball Head Coach John Beilein
On the approval of the designs of the Basketball Player Development Center ... "It is indeed an exciting time for Michigan basketball as we continue to work with our architects on the design of a brand new Basketball Player Development Center. These recent visual renderings of this project reflect the commitment that has been made to both the women and men's basketball program's here at U-M. I love the fact that our student-athletes will benefit from having the opportunity to train and prepare, using the latest technology, in a state-of-the-art, world-class facility. The dedication of so many involved with the design of this facility, and the continued leadership of President Coleman, Bill Martin and Mike Stevenson, has been instrumental in moving this important project forward."

Michigan Women's Basketball Head Coach Kevin Borseth
On the approval of the designs of the Basketball Player Development Center ... "The goal of our program is to create an environment that will foster what's best for the development of the student-athlete and their success, both on the court and in the classroom. This facility, and everything that it will bring to our program, will help us achieve those goals. Everything surrounding our basketball program, including scheduling, player/coach working relationships, player development and recruitment, will benefit from this addition."

Men's basketball contact: Tom Wywrot (734) 763-4423
Women's basketball contact: Jessica Poole (734) 763-4423