Bob Carpenter Center: University of Delaware's Premier Arena

The Bob Carpenter Center (BCC), located on the University of Delaware campus, is a versatile arena named in honor of R.R.M. Carpenter Jr., a benefactor and trustee of the university. Opened in 1992 at a cost of $20.5 million, the arena has since become a central hub for both athletic and entertainment events. The BCC is primarily home to the University of Delaware's Fightin' Blue Hens men's and women's basketball teams. From 2013 to 2018, it also hosted the Delaware 87ers, an NBA G League team. The arena has also hosted a preseason game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics. Beyond sports, the Bob Carpenter Center hosts a variety of events, including concerts, WWE wrestling matches, comedy shows, convocations, and banquets. In late 2010, the University constructed a 45,000-square-foot addition to the Bob Carpenter Center. This addition included two full-sized basketball courts, new offices and locker rooms, and a new entrance plaza. The arena section of the building is named in honor of Frank E. Acierno, who donated $1 million to the Bob Carpenter Center. Inside, the arena features chairback seating for most attendees, with student seating located behind the baskets. A large video board hangs over the court, and smaller scoreboards display player statistics. The lower lobby showcases murals honoring Delaware athletics, along with a trophy case and a statue of the school mascot, YouDee the Blue Hen.