Originally named Purdue Arena, it was renamed in 1972 to honor Purdue alumnus and long time athletic director Guy "Red" Mackey. On December 12, 1997, the floor was renamed Keady Court in honor of longtime men's coach Gene Keady. The circular arena, similar to several built in the 1960s, seats 14,804, and is considered by many as one of the loudest arenas in the nation due to its domed aluminum roof.
Renovations
In recent years, Mackey Arena has experienced numerous upgrades and improvements, including:
1997 - New playing surface and basketball hoops installed
2011 - New playing surface installed after water damage
2016 - Playing surface replaced after a flood due to a broken water main
2017 - Center video board and stat boards replaced and upgraded, new LED ribbons installed above both baselines
Mackey Arena Complex Project
On May 18, 2007, the university's board of trustees voted to award a contract to HNTB Architecture of Kansas City, Mo., for a $99.5 million project that extends from the outer edges of the arena north along Northwestern Avenue to Cherry Lane. A three-level structure is planned north of Mackey and currently is being referred to as the Student-Athlete Development Center. Its highlights include:
A sports medicine facility approximately three and a half to four times larger than the current area in Mackey.
A strength and weight training facility approximately four times larger than the existing Intercollegiate Athletic Facility weight room.
An oversized basketball practice facility, including Danielle and Brian Cardinal Court and three breakout shooting areas.
The Drew and Britney Brees Student Athlete Academic Center, towards which the couple donated $2 million in the fall of 2007.
New playing surface for Keady Court
Reseating of the Paint Crew for the 2011-2012 season
Proposed visitors tunnel on be cut into the southeast lower bowl seating area
Interactive fan elements and coaching technologies in concourse
The concourse width will be approximately doubled, concessions will increase four times and restrooms will increase three times for women and by 35% for men. In addition, the lower seating sections on the east side will be modified to allow for some premium seats, with club seats and loge seats provided. A limited number of premium courtside seats will be available in the west pit area. Accessible seating will increase approximately six times. Two club spaces will be created, one for general fans on the west side and a premium club to the east.
