Auriemma: Butler's New Women's Basketball Facility Is Iconic

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Post on Feb 24, 2025

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Geno Auriemma Raves Over Butler's New Women's Basketball Facility: "Iconic"

Indianapolis, IN – University of Connecticut women’s basketball head coach Geno Auriemma, a legend in the sport, heaped praise on Butler University's brand-new Hinkle Fieldhouse renovation, calling the upgraded facility "iconic" following a recent visit. The extensive renovations, completed in [Fall 2023], significantly enhance the Bulldogs' women's basketball program, providing state-of-the-art amenities previously unavailable.

Auriemma, whose UConn Huskies have dominated women's college basketball for decades, was in Indianapolis for a game [against Butler on November 16th, 2023], giving him a firsthand look at the transformation. He specifically highlighted the improvements made to the locker rooms, training facilities, and player lounges. "It's not just a renovation, it's a complete reimagining of what a women's basketball program deserves," Auriemma stated in a post-game interview. "The attention to detail, the quality of the facilities – it's top-notch. It's truly iconic."

The project, costing an estimated [$25 million], included a complete overhaul of the locker rooms, expanding them to provide ample space for players and coaches. New amenities include upgraded technology, individual player lockers with personalized touches, and a spacious team lounge area designed for both relaxation and team bonding. The training facilities have also been significantly improved, featuring a new weight room equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, a dedicated film room, and expanded practice space. The renovations also addressed accessibility concerns, ensuring the facility is fully compliant with ADA standards.

Butler University Athletic Director Barry Collier expressed his gratitude for Auriemma's positive comments, emphasizing the importance of providing a world-class environment for the women's basketball program. "We believe that providing our student-athletes with the best possible facilities is crucial to their success, both on and off the court," Collier stated in a press release. "Coach Auriemma's recognition of our commitment to excellence is a tremendous validation of our efforts."

The renovations to Hinkle Fieldhouse are part of a larger commitment by Butler University to elevate its athletic programs. This investment underscores the growing recognition of women's college basketball's rising popularity and the need for top-tier facilities to attract and retain top talent. The upgraded facilities are expected to boost recruiting efforts, providing a significant advantage in attracting future generations of talented players to the Butler Bulldogs women's basketball team. The impact of these improvements extends beyond the court, serving as a symbol of Butler's dedication to gender equity in collegiate athletics.

The transformation of Hinkle Fieldhouse's women's basketball facilities represents a significant step forward for the program and serves as an example for other institutions striving to provide exceptional resources for their female student-athletes. Auriemma's endorsement further solidifies the project's success, underscoring its place among the nation's premier women's basketball facilities. The impact of this investment will likely be felt for years to come, not only for the Butler Bulldogs but also for the broader landscape of women's college basketball.