**Indiana Pacers Unveil State-of-the-Art, \$2.5 Billion Renovation to Gainbridge Fieldhouse Stadium: Redefining Basketball Standard with Cutting-Edge Technology, Luxury Suites, and Expanded Seating for a World-Class Fan Experience**
INDIANAPOLIS — July 14, 2025 — The Indiana Pacers have officially announced a landmark \$2.5 billion renovation project for Gainbridge Fieldhouse, positioning the iconic stadium as one of the most technologically advanced and fan-centric arenas in the world. This transformative effort not only elevates the basketball standard for the NBA but also reinforces Indianapolis as a premier sports and entertainment destination.
Pacers Sports & Entertainment President Rick Fuson, alongside Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb and Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, revealed the extensive plans in a press conference this morning at the arena’s Bicentennial Unity Plaza.
“This isn’t just about basketball,” Fuson stated. “This is about creating an environment where fans, players, and our community experience the future of sports entertainment — all while honoring Indiana’s rich basketball heritage.”
### A New Era for Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Originally opened in 1999, Gainbridge Fieldhouse has long been praised for its intimate sightlines and classic design. But with the NBA’s global expansion and rising fan expectations, Pacers ownership recognized the need for a comprehensive modernization.
Key features of the \$2.5 billion renovation include:
* **Cutting-Edge Technology:**
The Fieldhouse will feature a fully immersive digital experience, including a new 360-degree Halo scoreboard — one of the largest in professional basketball — augmented reality fan interactions, and smart seat technology that provides personalized content, food ordering, and merchandise services through in-seat tablets.
* **Expanded Seating Capacity:**
The renovation will increase seating capacity from 17,274 to approximately 19,000 for basketball games. This expansion includes more accessible seating options, standing-room areas, and tiered fan zones.
* **Luxury Suites and Premium Clubs:**
The project introduces 120 new luxury suites, complete with private lounges, concierge services, and gourmet catering. Fans can also enjoy revamped premium clubs like the PointsBet Hardwood Club and the 67 Club, offering exclusive access, upscale dining, and curated experiences.
* **Sustainability Initiatives:**
Gainbridge Fieldhouse is set to become one of the NBA’s greenest arenas, incorporating solar panels, advanced HVAC systems, water recycling technologies, and a zero-waste program aimed at minimizing the venue’s environmental footprint.
* **Bicentennial Unity Plaza Expansion:**
The adjacent plaza, opened in 2023, will see further development with year-round public activation, including an expanded ice rink, music stages, art installations, and food and beverage pavilions.
### Fan Experience First
At the core of the renovation is the fan experience. Pacers fans can expect seamless ticketing through facial recognition, AI-powered security screenings, and mobile-app-integrated everything — from parking reservations to post-game content.
“Sports are evolving, and so are the expectations of fans,” said Herb Simon, Pacers owner since 1983. “We’re making sure that Gainbridge Fieldhouse isn’t just keeping up but setting the standard across the NBA and beyond.”
The renovation will also feature:
* Wider concourses with local food vendors
* An NBA Hall of Fame-style museum dedicated to Indiana basketball legends
* Family-friendly zones including VR gaming areas and interactive kids’ courts
* Enhanced locker rooms and training facilities for both the Pacers and Indiana Fever
### Economic Impact and Community Benefits
The renovation is projected to create over 8,000 construction jobs and add an estimated \$1.2 billion to the local economy over the next decade, according to a report from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
Funding is being sourced through a public-private partnership involving Pacers Sports & Entertainment, the City of Indianapolis, and state development grants. The agreement ensures the Pacers will remain in Indianapolis through at least 2050.
“This is a once-in-a-generation investment in Indiana’s cultural fabric,” Governor Holcomb remarked. “Gainbridge Fieldhouse is already a cornerstone of our state’s identity, and now it will serve as a world leader in sports and entertainment innovation.”
### Construction Timeline
Work on the stadium’s interior is scheduled to begin in late 2025 following the NBA season, with phased openings planned to minimize disruption to Pacers and Fever games. Full project completion is expected by the start of the 2028-2029 NBA season.
* **Fall 2025:** Groundbreaking on new luxury suites and concourse expansion
* **Summer 2026:** Installation of new scoreboard and technology infrastructure
* **Spring 2027:** Seating expansion and sustainability upgrades
* **Summer 2028:** Grand reopening ceremony and ribbon-cutting
### Reactions from Around the League
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised the project in a statement:
“The Indiana Pacers have long exemplified what it means to put fans first. This comprehensive renovation of Gainbridge Fieldhouse sets a new benchmark for arenas worldwide, both in terms of technology and commitment to community.”
Players also weighed in. Pacers All-Star Tyrese Haliburton, who is recovering from injury, posted on social media:
*”The future of Indy basketball looks crazy bright. Can’t wait to suit up in the new Fieldhouse!”*
### A Model for Future NBA Arenas
Industry analysts note that Gainbridge Fieldhouse’s \$2.5 billion transformation could influence how other NBA teams approach stadium upgrades in coming years. With its emphasis on fan personalization, community integration, and environmental responsibility, Indiana may have just written the new playbook for 21st-century arenas.
For Pacers fans, the message is clear: Indiana’s basketball heartbeat is getting louder, bolder, and more dynamic — and Gainbridge Fieldhouse is set to be the world-class stage it deserves.
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