Bob Carpenter Center

Bob Carpenter Center is a 5,000-seat multi-purpose arena, in Newark, Delaware, named in honor of benefactor and trustee, R. R. M. Carpenter, Jr. (1915–1990). Students at the University of Delaware have nicknamed it "The Bob." The arena opened in 1992 and facility was designed by HOK Sport, who have been involved in more than 150 sports and recreation projects. The construction of the building cost $20.5 million. In late 2010, the University began construction on an addition, which will include two full-size basketball courts, new offices and locker rooms for the basketball and volleyball programs, and a new entrance plaza. The arena section of the building is named in honor of Frank E. Acierno, a local businessman and developer, who donated $1 million to the Bob Carpenter Center, the largest gift from a single donor. It is home to the University of Delaware Blue Hens basketball team, and beginning in fall of 2013, the Delaware 87ers of the NBA Development League. It will also host a preseason game for the Philadelphia 76ers vs the Boston Celtics. It hosted a campaign rally for Vice President Al Gore in 1996 and all or part of the 1997-2001 America East Conference men's basketball tournaments. It also hosts other events, such as the WWE, music and comedy concerts, and craft fairs.