ASU Desert Financial Arena Set for $100 Million Transformation
- Natalie Fricke
- Nov 6, 2025
- 2 min read
Desert Financial Arena — the longtime home of Sun Devil basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and wrestling — is gearing up for a massive facelift. Arizona State University has announced plans for a multiyear, $100 million renovation of the 51-year-old venue, with completion expected by December 2029, pending approval from the Arizona Board of Regents.
The upgrades will roll out in phases and focus on both fan experience and athlete amenities. Expect new club-level and premium floor seating, loge boxes, restrooms, concessions, and a new court, plus improved locker rooms, air conditioning, and full ADA compliance with new elevators and accessible stairs.
“We’re building a game day experience that matches the passion and pride of our fans while giving our Sun Devil teams a true home court advantage,” said ASU Athletics Director Graham Rossini. “This renovation is about creating a space that energizes our entire ASU community.”
A New Era for a Campus Landmark
ASU President Michael Crow said the project will take both fan and student-athlete experiences “into a new era.”
“For half a century, this arena has welcomed students, fans, and families for unforgettable moments,” Crow said. “These renovations will provide a superb, modern arena for the next 50 years.”
What’s Changing — and When
Phase 1 (starting May 2026):
New court installation
Replacement of 729 lower-bowl seats with padded versions (cupholders included)
Addition of 200 wider “premium” seats and four “Hollywood” courtside seats
Phase 2 (summer 2027):
Renovated and new restrooms
New sound system
Construction of multiple loge boxes for up to 120 people, featuring screens and tables for food and drinks
Addition of “theater boxes” with wider, padded seats
Phase 3 (summer 2028):
New courtside-level club with direct access for premium ticket holders
Upgraded concessions and self-serve food kiosks
New center-hung video board and LED ribbon boards
Updated locker rooms and relocated offices
The concourses will also get a storytelling upgrade, celebrating the arena’s history — from the Eagles’ first performance of “Hotel California” in 1976 to multiple NCAA tournaments.
Although the renovations will slightly reduce seating capacity (currently 14,198), ASU hasn’t finalized the new number. The majority of construction will happen between April and October each year, allowing teams to continue playing on site.
The project is part of ASU’s Changing Futures Campaign, which will rely heavily on fundraising. Sun Devil Club members and season ticket holders can find reseating details on the Sun Devil Athletics website.
“Through the Changing Futures campaign, we’re inviting Sun Devils everywhere to help shape the future of this campus landmark,” Rossini said.
Natalie Fricke, Realtor
480.748.7885
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
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