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As part of a partnership with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Noblesville plans to build a new 3,400-seat, 85,000-square-foot arena on the city’s east side.
Noblesville and Pacers Sports & Entertainment announced a partnership to bring NBA G League affiliate Mad Ants as part of a plan that will result in the construction of an 85,000-square-foot arena on the city’s east side.
The partnership, announced Monday afternoon at Finch Creek Park, will bring Mad Ants to Noblesville. Noblesville plans to build a 3,400-seat stadium at a cost of $36.5 million to accommodate the move, officials said.
“We are thrilled to welcome the players, coaches and staff of the Pacers Sports and Entertainment and G League teams to Noblesville,” said Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen. “The Pacers are an iconic brand, with deep roots in central Indiana. Partnering with such an influential organization opens up countless opportunities for our community and propels us to build an even greater sports and entertainment district through enhanced partnerships.”
As part of a partnership with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Noblesville plans to build a new 3,400-seat, 85,000-square-foot arena on the city’s east side.
Officials said the new arena is expected to open during the 2024-25 season, during which time the team will play games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. City and team officials are doing due diligence with local partners and plan to build the arena at Finch Creek Park near the Mojo Up Sports Complex, which is visited by nearly 1 million people a year.
Jensen said at a news conference that he expects the arena to attract 65,000 fans a year to Noblesville and Finch Creek for games, already the second-most visited area by sports tourists in Hamilton County.
“We are working with the Pacers and other partners to design options for the arena on days the Pacers are not using it. The facility will be available for events such as IHSAA tournaments and games, concerts, conferences, corporate events and graduations ,” Jensen said. “Further steps are being taken to finalize development and programming partners, which may also incorporate additional project features and entertainment.”
Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Rick Fuson said the team will keep the Mad Ants through the 2023-24 season. A new mascot will be unveiled before the 2024-25 season, he said.
Fuson said the Mad Ants name will be phased out, though he said it hasn’t been determined what the new name will be.
“The G League is world-class basketball and PS&E is proud to bring it to Noblesville as we strengthen our basketball operations and enhance player development in one of the most vibrant and growing communities in the state ,” Fussen said. “We’re excited about the way this partnership aligns with Mayor Jansen’s bold economic development vision, and we can’t wait to continue growing our NBA and G League fan base in Hamilton County.”
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