University of Utah Unveils New Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility

October 1, 2015

SALT LAKE CITY –  As basketball season draws near, the University of Utah has unveiled the lastest and greatest in collegiate training facilities. The new Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility, designed by Populous, will serve both men’s and women’s basketball, while a multi-purpose weight room and training room will serve the basketball programs and 13 other Olympic sport athletes.

“The University of Utah now has arguably the most high-impact facility in the Pac-12, and quite possibly, in all of collegiate athletics. The design will create a well-rounded experience that is enhanced athletically and academically,” said Jeremy Krug, Senior Associate at Populous and Project Designer for the facility. “This will be a new home for two talented programs and the symbolic foundation for a great experience and a bold future.”

The 101,994 square foot training facility, which is named in honor of longtime supporters Jon M. and Karen Huntsman, has been funded in large part by generous donors. The facility will be one of the largest basketball training facilities on a college campus – the largest Populous has ever designed – and provides student-athletes with state-of-the-art resources, including film rooms, strength training, a refueling station, sports medicine, hydrotherapy, dining, academic support and practice courts. As the centralized home for the men’s and women’s basketball teams, the three-story facility includes dedicated practice gymnasiums for both teams and highlights the teams’ history and legacy.

In addition, the facility features the first custom logo hot and cold plunge pools in the world and four private spa pools. The best views come from a rooftop terrace, accessible for student-athletes and staff, with 360 degree views of Salt Lake City, the State Capitol and Wasatch Mountains.

“The design takes advantage of the scenic campus and beautiful views throughout with expanses of glass. Inside, bold graphic treatments and a flexible design make the building functional and inspiring.” said Krug. “At the end of the day, we want to design a place where student-athletes, staff and coaches love to be together. I’m confident that the Utes will feel right at home.”

The facility has already received praise from media and industry leaders. Bobby Marks, former assistant general manager of the Nets, tweeted that the “Runnin’ Utes’ new practice facility (is) by far the nicest one I have seen of any college.” The Daily Utah Chronicle outlined that the project will “present a wider range of possibilities for the basketball program.” Sophomore forward Emily Potter commented that after touring the new facility “WOW Is all I can say.”

The ribbon cutting was held Thursday at 11:30 am. To learn more about the facility, visit www.runninutes.com and www.utahwomenshoops.com.

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