Indiana University Indianapolis celebrated a key construction milestone this week for the James T. Morris Arena, marking steady progress on the $110 million multipurpose facility expected to open in late 2026.
University leaders, student-athletes, community partners and members of the Morris family gathered on site Tuesday for a ceremonial beam-signing, where the final structural beam was signed and lifted into place atop the rising arena. The moment symbolized the transition from foundational construction to the next phase of development for the highly anticipated venue.
Named in honor of the late James Morris — an IU alumnus, former trustee and longtime civic and business leader in central Indiana — the arena is designed to strengthen IU Indianapolis’ athletics program while reinforcing downtown Indianapolis’ status as a national sports destination.
“The James T. Morris Arena represents a transformational investment — not just in our IU Indy athletics program, but in the economic vitality of our city,” IU President Pamela Whitten said. “Jim Morris believed deeply in the power of sport to bring people together and strengthen communities. Today’s milestone celebrates that vision and the momentum behind IU Indianapolis’ future as a key player in the Indy sports economy.”
Often referred to as “The Jim,” the arena will seat approximately 4,500 spectators and include a primary basketball and volleyball court, an auxiliary gym and flexible community-use spaces. The facility will also house office space for IU Athletics and national sports organizations, including USA Track and Field.
Retractable seating will allow the venue to host a wide range of events beyond collegiate athletics, including high school competitions, recreational programming and large community gatherings. Located just south of Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Hall, the arena occupies a central and highly visible location on the IU Indianapolis campus.
The project is the result of collaboration among the Indiana University Board of Trustees, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and the Indiana State Budget Committee, reflecting a shared investment in higher education, economic development and community engagement.
“‘The Jim’ reinforces IU Indianapolis’ role as a key player in Indy’s sports economy,” said Patrick Talty, president of Indiana Sports Corp. “This facility strengthens the city’s ability to attract and host major sporting events while deepening the connection between higher education, community impact and economic growth. IU Indianapolis continues to be an essential partner in making Indiana the global epicenter of sports.”
IU Indianapolis Chancellor Latha Ramchand emphasized the personal legacy behind the project, noting the broader impact the arena is expected to have on students and the surrounding community.
“Jim Morris spent his life opening doors for others,” Ramchand said. “As this arena rises, it carries forward that legacy. It will create new opportunities for students and serve as a gathering place for Indianapolis — a reminder of the impact one person can make when they choose to invest in the community.”
Construction on the James T. Morris Arena remains on schedule, with completion targeted for late 2026. Once finished, the facility is expected to serve as a cornerstone for IU Indianapolis athletics and a new hub for sports and community activity in downtown Indianapolis.
Originally reported by News at IU.
