Facilities & DirectionsAuraria Event Center Formerly the Auraria Gymnasium, the Auraria Event Center serves as home for the Metropolitan State University of Denver volleyball, men’s basketball and women’s basketball teams. Originally built in 1976, the original gymnasium contained 30,000 square feet and was primarily used for MSU Denver’s Physical Education and Campus Recreation departments. On Sept. 14, 1990, an expansion project was started that added another 38,000 square feet and various other improvements to the facility. This renovated building features seating for 2,200 persons with semi-automated theatre-style chairs, four additional racquetball courts, an 1,800-square foot weight/fitness area, two additional dressing areas, one auxiliary gymnasium, a gymnastics/combatives area, a renovated main locker facility, a full-service training area, student lounges, a multi-purpose activity center to accommodate recreational events and additional public restrooms. In 2010, a new Daktronics scoreboard and animated message board were both added. During the summer of 2013, the facility received more major upgrades. The Jumbotron from Pepsi Center was moved across the street and mounted on the south baseline in the gym. In addition, a new floor was designed and painted, and portable baskets were installed. The upgrades make the Auraria Event Center the premier basketball facility in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. The Auraria Event Center is one of the region’s premier NCAA Division II athletic facilities. Since 1997-98, the men’s basketball team is 241-21 (.920) at home, including a perfect 17-0 in 2004-05, 2006-07 and 2013-14, and 15-0 in 2008-09. Since 2004-05, MSU’s women’s team is 116-28 (.806). |