When it opened in 1998, the University of Illinois’ Ubben Basketball Complex was among the nation’s first stand-alone basketball practice facilities offering equal space and training opportunities for both the men’s and women’s programs. It set a national standard for excellence in collegiate training environments.

More than 25 years later, the university saw a chance to once again position Ubben as a national benchmark. Guided by a bold vision, the reimagined facility was designed to champion student-athlete success, celebrate the program’s legacy and fuel Illinois basketball’s pursuit of sustained national prominence. 

Through a transformative renovation and expansion, the new complex blends academic and athletic priorities in a way that reflects the university’s enduring values of commitment, equity and excellence.

"The renovation and expansion of the Ubben Basketball Complex stands as one of the most notable accomplishments of our completed With Illinois campaign," said University of Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman. "When it was originally built, Ubben set the national standard for basketball facilities and helped drive a decade of unparalleled programmatic success. With this project, Ubben again becomes the preeminent practice facility in all of college basketball.” 

In partnership with HNTB, the project’s architect, the university led a complete overhaul of the facility — adding 40,000 square feet of new space and remodeling another 35,000 square feet. The new complex includes additional court space, sports medicine facilities, an enhanced strength and conditioning area, dedicated study spaces, expanded staff offices and modern student-athlete amenities in new locker room and team areas.

From the earliest design conversations, HNTB worked hand-in-hand with university leadership to bring its vision to life. The design team listened closely to understand not just the university’s goals, but the deeper story the facility needed to tell: a legacy of leadership and a commitment to the future of collegiate basketball. 

The entirety of the complex was carefully choreographed around the daily rhythms of the student-athlete. Whether transitioning between training, recovery or nutrition, student-athletes have equitable, frictionless access to the resources that drive peak performance and holistic well-being.  

A central nutrition station, supported by on-staff nutritionists, was placed between the men’s and women’s practice courts. 

“Previously, the complex didn’t have a dedicated space where athletes could grab healthy snacks on the go,” said Matthew Kastel, HNTB project manager. “The coaches emphasized that if it wasn’t conveniently located, athletes simply wouldn’t use it.”

A legacy on display 

“One of the university’s goals was to create a true front door for Illinois basketball — an entrance that immediately embodies the pride, rich history and championship mindset of the program,” said Vito Privitera, design director at HNTB. “From the moment you step inside, you feel the legacy of those who paved the way and the high expectations embraced by every student-athlete who walks these halls.”

This new entry experience is anchored by a soaring, light-filled atrium that serves as both a gathering space and a showcase of tradition. Curated displays throughout the lobby reflect the program’s storied past, while a large LED video wall spans its width, offering dynamic, customizable content from recent game highlights to NBA draft celebrations and personalized recruiting messages. 

The two-story lobby is bathed in natural light through clerestory windows, and warm wood finishes enrich the space. These design elements create a signature arrival experience to connect visitors, players and staff with the legacy and future of Illinois basketball.