INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana University Indianapolis officially dedicated its new James T. Morris Arena on Wednesday, November 11, honoring a longtime Indiana civic leader while celebrating a major addition to the university and downtown Indianapolis.
The 3,902-seat multipurpose facility, affectionately known as “The Jim,” was dedicated during a ceremony held before the IU Indianapolis Jaguars men’s basketball team faced the University of Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles.
Located at 725 W. Ohio St., the arena serves as a new home for IU Indianapolis Athletics while creating opportunities for the university to connect with the city’s nationally recognized sports industry.
The facility honors the late Jim Morris, an IU alumnus and prominent civic leader whose career in public service, business and philanthropy left a lasting impact on Indiana University, Indianapolis and the state of Indiana.
(Photo by Liz Kaye, Indiana University)
“Jim Morris devoted his life to strengthening communities and creating opportunities for others,” IU President Pamela Whitten said. “The James T. Morris Arena honors that remarkable legacy by creating a place that strengthens our partnership with the city and helps prepare the next generation of leaders who will drive Indiana’s sports, hospitality, health and business industries.”
Beyond serving as a venue for basketball and volleyball, the arena is designed to host collegiate and high school athletic competitions, championships, community events and public gatherings. It includes an auxiliary gymnasium that can be converted into event space, locker rooms, training facilities, concessions and retractable seating.
The facility also houses 16,000 square feet of office space for USA Track & Field, bringing the national organization directly onto the IU Indianapolis campus. The partnership will create opportunities for students pursuing careers in sports management, tourism and event management to gain hands-on experience and professional connections.
(Photo by Liz Kaye, Indiana University)
IU Indianapolis Chancellor Latha Ramchand said the arena will serve as an important connection between the university and the surrounding community.
“It will be our front door to the community and will give our students new opportunities to learn, lead, and gain hands-on experience in one of the nation’s most dynamic sports and event communities,” Ramchand said.
Morris served on the IU Board of Trustees over multiple decades and held leadership positions with organizations including Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Lilly Endowment Inc., IWC Resources Corp. and the United Nations World Food Programme. His work spanned public service, business and philanthropy, reflecting his commitment to strengthening communities and creating opportunities for others.
For his family, the dedication carried a particularly personal meaning.
“Jim cared deeply about Indianapolis, Indiana University and the people whose lives could be changed through education and community,” said Jackie Morris, his wife. “Seeing his name on a place that will welcome thousands of students and families for years to come is a moving tribute to his legacy.”
The $110 million project received approximately $89 million in state appropriations and a $21 million investment from Indiana University. Construction officially began with a groundbreaking ceremony in February 2025.
With its new arena, IU Indianapolis gains more than a home for its athletic programs. The facility is expected to strengthen Indianapolis’ ability to host sporting events and community gatherings while providing students with new opportunities to learn and build careers in the sports and event industries.
The dedication marks a new chapter for the university while ensuring Morris’ legacy continues to be part of the Indianapolis community.
