Northwestern Basketball Unveils Renovated Welsh-Ryan Arena

EVANSTON, ILLINOIS— Opening night has arrived. After nearly a year and a half of construction, Welsh-Ryan Arena opened on Friday, November 2nd.

The arena, which still has the charm of the old Welsh-Ryan, contains sentiments all around to honor the old Welsh-Ryan, as well as important players from all sports in Northwestern history.

Here are some of the highlights:

Gianna Marshall

In the lobby, a brief history of Welsh-Ryan is on the wall.

Gianna Marshall

This is what the Arena looks like from the upper deck. The cream-painted ceiling is now grey.

Gianna Marshall

Gianna Marshall

The lobby entrance contains interactive screens for guests to use.

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Notable Northwestern alumni and impact players from all sports line the outer walls of the second and third floors of the arena.

Gianna Marshall

There are now windows on the south end of the arena where you can see a view of Ryan Field while purchasing apparel and concessions.

Gianna Marshall

All of the seats, besides the student section, now have backs on them. There is also more courtside seating on three sides of the court.

Gianna Marshall

The student sections are still on either side of the court behind each basket.

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Overall, the newly renovated Welsh-Ryan Arena was worth the wait. It pays homage to all the players and athletes who came before and creates a better experience for the current and future ones.