INDIANAPOLIS — The University of Indianapolis’ successful basketball teams — including an undefeated men’s squad currently ranked third in the nation — will have a renovated home next season, thanks to the generosity of a local businessman and philanthropist.
Ray Skillman Auto Group has pledged $500,000 to replace the basketball floor and install more effective and efficient LED lighting in UIndy’s 4,000-seat Nicoson Hall, home to the Greyhounds since 1960.
The renovation work, which includes other improvements to the facility, will begin immediately after the current season and should be completed in time for 2015-2016 play. In recognition of the gift, the competition floor will be dubbed “Skillman Court,” with a dedication ceremony taking place this fall.
Nicoson Hall, considered one of the top Division II basketball venues in the region, has hosted training camps for the Indiana Pacers and practice sessions for their NBA foes, as well as practices for Final Four and Big Ten Tournament competitors. The building is named for the late Angus Nicoson, longtime athletic director and basketball coach for the Greyhounds.
The UIndy men’s team has reached the NCAA Tournament for the past four seasons under head coach Stan Gouard. The women’s team, which also defeated Bellarmine on Thursday, has reached tournament play for the past three years under head coach Constantin Popa.
