Furman University basketball arena to undergo $40M renovation

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The basketball home of the Furman University Paladins for nearly three decades will undergo a major renovation and reopen in the fall of 2025.

The $40 million donor-funded renovation will transform Furman’s Timmons Arena into a first-class, state-of-the-art facility that will “dramatically enhance” the game day experience for Furman’s fans and students, according to a Furman University news release.

The renovations are scheduled to begin in April and will include:

• a reimagining of the arena’s entrance and lobby;
• upgrades to seating options, the addition of premium and luxury box seating’
• improved audio and visual components’
• enhanced box office support;
• a children’s play area; and
• new visiting team locker room and new administrative offices.

There will also be premium access to eight private suites and two-party suites, a hospitality deck, courtside seating and a private VIP lounge, and enhanced concessions, including “Grab & Go” options.

The capacity of the renovated arena will be 2,750 and feature 360-degree concourse access to lower-bowl seating.

“A renovated Timmons Arena will not only honor and celebrate the Paladins’ storied past, but will create a tremendous home-court advantage, enhancing the Paladins’ ability to recruit and develop the nation’s top-tier student-athletes into champions and providing a new, electric game day environment for our passionate fans,” said Furman Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Jason Donnelly. “We are immensely grateful for the support of (Furman University) President Davis and our Board of Trustees, as well as to the many generous donors who have stepped up to make this happen.”

This capital project of the Clearly Furman Campaign represents the largest donor-funded project in Furman history and is headlined by a cornerstone $10 million gift from philanthropist and businessman Ravenel B. Curry III ’63, according to the release.

Curry’s lead gift is supported by more than 200-plus donors, including ten seven-figure gifts and 31 six-figure gifts. These investments represent a significant step in advancing the strategic priorities outlined in “Inspiring Greatness, Furman Athletics’ Strategic Plan,” which emphasizes philanthropic support for athletics facilities, endowment, and operational support for all 19 varsity teams, the release stated.

“Thanks to our generous donors, Timmons Arena will be the showplace for college basketball in our conference and one of the best arenas in the country,” said Furman University President Elizabeth Davis. “Timmons will be a jewel on campus for all our students, faculty and staff, and it will continue to be a place for the Upstate and Furman communities to gather for basketball, Furman Engaged, graduation, and other student events.”