After an impressive 20-month, $87-million renovation funded privately, Fifth Third Arena emerged anew in the 2018-19 season, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing ascent of University of Cincinnati basketball. This state-of-the-art on-campus facility now proudly serves as home to one of the nation’s most celebrated programs, renowned for its storied legacy and iconic players.
“The reopening of the arena is a deeply emotional occasion for many who have dedicated themselves to the basketball program,” remarked UC head coach Mick Cronin. He highlighted the collective journey of success, from legends like Oscar Robertson and Kenyon Martin to the enduring connection with Jack Twyman’s family in Cincinnati, all culminating in what he envisions as “maybe the best on-campus arena in the country.”
The revamped arena, boasting a 12,012-seat capacity, showcases significant enhancements, including dual 360-degree concourses designed for court-focused viewing. Premium seating options have been introduced with new club seats, loge boxes, and exclusive suites. Fans can indulge in the elevated entertainment offered by The Arena Club, Champions Club, and the Mercedes-Benz Courtside Club. State-of-the-art videoboards and ribbon boards amplify the gameday atmosphere, while expanded concession points feature culinary selections from Cincinnati’s esteemed restaurants.
Beyond fan amenities, student-athletes benefit from upgraded facilities, including modernized locker rooms, a dedicated film room, a hydrotherapy suite, and the Margaret K. Valentine Classroom, fostering enhanced learning environments within the University.
Retaining its famed game day atmosphere, the arena is anticipated to continue to be a thrilling venue, characterized by its boisterous and intimidating student sections along the baselines, fueling the passionate and determined play on the court.
Throughout its history, Fifth Third Arena has welcomed over 4.8 million fans. Since the inaugural men’s basketball game on November 25, 1989, the Bearcats have achieved an impressive 385-79 home record, demonstrating an .830 win percentage.
Originally named the Myrl H. Shoemaker Center, in honor of the former Ohio lieutenant governor pivotal in securing state funding during his tenure as chairman of the Ohio House Finance Appropriations Committee, the arena was later renamed. Following Shoemaker’s passing in 1985, the venue was rebranded in 2004 as Fifth Third Arena at Myrl H. Shoemaker Center. This renaming recognized Fifth Third Bank’s substantial support for the Varsity Village facilities enhancement project. Fifth Third Bank remains a committed, long-term partner across various campus initiatives, underscoring the strong relationship between Fifth Third Bank and the University of Cincinnati.
In 2002, the court itself was designated Ed Jucker Court, paying tribute to the head coach who guided Cincinnati to its two national championships in 1961 and 1962. This rich history combined with modern upgrades ensures Fifth Third Arena remains a premier destination for college basketball.
Key Renovations at Fifth Third Arena:
- Facade, entries, and plaza renovations, including a new outdoor videoboard for fan engagement.
- Reconfigured seating with 360-degree concourses and court-centric views, incorporating new chairback seating and a permanent lower bowl.
- Enhanced hospitality areas, featuring main and upper-level concourse bars accessible to all attendees, along with three exclusive clubs: Arena Club, Champions Club, and Mercedes-Benz Courtside Club.
- A new upper-level concourse equipped with dedicated fan amenities, including updated restrooms, concessions, and a specialty drink bar.
- Additional bar locations at the north end of both main and upper concourses – the Armory Bar and the Queen City Bar – showcasing UC Athletics’ partnerships with local breweries Braxton, MadTree, and Rhinegeist.
- Installation of a new center-hung videoboard, ribbon boards, sound system, and LED lighting to create an electrifying game atmosphere.
- Increased and improved concession points, offering popular Cincinnati food options from Buffalo Wings & Rings, Frisch’s, Skyline Chili, and Taste of Belgium.
- An open entrance plaza featuring centralized ticketing and guest services, alongside the new Fan First Center to improve visitor experience.
The revitalized Fifth Third Arena stands as a testament to the commitment of the University of Cincinnati and partners like Fifth Third Bank to provide a top-tier experience for both athletes and fans, ensuring its place as a leading venue in college basketball for years to come.
