The Charlotte Hornets have chosen Gilbane Building Co., based in Providence, Rhode Island, as part of a joint venture to construct the NBA team’s new state-of-the-art practice facility, according to a news release dated October 14. This facility will be located adjacent to Spectrum Center, the home arena for the Hornets.
Gilbane is partnering with Denver-based strategic management consulting firm CAA Icon, Kansas City, Missouri-based design firm Populous, and local builder R.J. Leeper for the project. The city of Charlotte has allocated $30 million towards the facility, while the Hornets' ownership group plans to invest between $70 to $100 million, as reported by Axios in September. The practice facility will encompass over 100,000 square feet dedicated to training, practice, and recovery, along with 35,000 square feet of administrative offices for the team's business operations. Additionally, the project will include up to 2,500 square feet of retail space at ground level and a public plaza.
“This endeavor is an incredible opportunity to elevate player performance by leveraging our extensive local building experience and national sports expertise for the benefit of Buzz City,” said Evan Synstad, Gilbane’s North Carolina business leader.
“Our joint venture team is committed to promoting local and diverse business opportunities, using this transformative project to make a significant impact in Uptown Charlotte and the broader community.”
The performance center is part of a larger $275 million initiative aimed at revitalizing the area, which also includes renovations to Spectrum Center. Earlier this year, the Hornets appointed New York City-based Turner Construction to oversee the arena renovations, with an estimated cost of $215 million.
Construction for the practice facility is set to begin in 2025, with the Hornets anticipating that it will be ready for the 2026-27 season.