MARION, Ind. - Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) announced plans to construct a $30 million state-of-the-art basketball arena on its Marion campus. The 80,000-square-foot I AM THIRD basketball arena will begin construction on Friday, October 18, on the north side of campus. Once completed, it is expected to help elevate the athletic experience at IWU-Marion.

"We are thrilled to announce the construction of our new I AM THIRD basketball arena, a facility that will not only enhance our athletic programs but also serve as a vibrant gathering place for our campus and our community," University President Jon Kulaga said. "This arena represents our commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics, and I'm excited to see how it will inspire school spirit, unite our students, and become a central hub for events and engagement. We can't wait to welcome everyone to this incredible new space."

The phrase "I am third" embodies the belief that God comes first, others second, and oneself third. This principle serves as the foundation for IWU's men's basketball program but it is also lived out across the entire IWU athletic and campus culture, emphasizing humility, service, and community.

The I AM THIRD arena will be multilevel, with spectators entering on the second level. In addition to the main court, it will include a full-sized practice court, a weight room, a training room, a team shop, a broadcast/filming area, two team rooms, five suites, and concessions.

"This new facility will significantly expand the scope and mission of IWU Athletics and give us a top-tier arena that matches not just our current basketball programs, but our athletic department as a whole," said Deane Webb, IWU's athletic director.

 "We have had the dream of a new facility to showcase both our ministry and excellence for many years," said Carl Shepard, chairman of IWU's Board of Trustees. "It is with grateful hearts and as an answer to many prayers that we now plan to break ground on our I AM THIRD arena."



While construction begins on Friday, the University will continue raising funds for the project. "This is a 'now and not yet' moment for IWU," said Kulaga. "We are breaking ground this week with over 80% of the necessary funds in hand, but we aren't there quite yet. With the help of new gifts, we anticipate our first games in the arena to take place in December 2026, along with the introduction of club men's and women's basketball, as well as men's volleyball."

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new arena will be held on the IWU-Marion campus at 4:00 p.m. on Friday. The event will feature IWU basketball coaches Dr. Greg Tonagel, Ethan Whaley, and Dr. Jeff Clark, along with former and current players.



Story by Indiana Wesleyan University


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