Littlejohn to Open for Duke Game Jan. 5

Dec. 19, 2002

Littlejohn Coliseum, while not completely finished, will be open for business on Jan. 5, when the Clemson University men’s basketball team hosts Duke University, assuming all continues to go as expected between now and then.

“Provided the contractor meets his obligations and remaining system tests are successful, Littlejohn will be fully capable of housing a sell-out basketball game on January 5,” said Chief Facilities Officer Bob Wells. To date, the facility has passed all major safety and accessibility tests.

The 36-year-old coliseum is undergoing a $31 million renovation to add an annex, improve sight lines, enhance facilities for fans and replace the roof. Although landscaping and site work are still under way, and some areas will not be ready for use, university officials expect visitors to see a marked improvement.

“Even though we still have work to do, the facility will offer better viewing, more convenience facilities, and an overall better experience for fans,” Wells said.

Ticket holders arriving for the 8 p.m. game can expect to find adequate parking, paved or gravel sidewalks, and temporary exterior lighting at walkways, along with construction fences. Inside, they will see wider concourses, a more open roofline, a refurbished scoreboard and game lighting system, and more restrooms and concessions stands. They also will see a mix of old and new seating, old and new signage and the same playing floor that has been used in the Anderson Civic Center for the early season games.

Since not all exits lead to sidewalks, guests are encouraged to leave by the same door they enter. After the 2003 basketball season, the remaining new seating and signage will be installed. By fall, concession stands, painting, permanent exterior lighting, and landscaping will be completed, and a new permanent basketball floor will be installed. Except for the new floor, the facility should be completed by May, in time for Clemson’s graduation ceremonies.

“In the meantime, fans attending games throughout the rest of the season will have a chance to see the transformation as it takes place,” Wells said.