Where is the Location of the New Arena?

The future home of some Sooner sports, including basketball, could be up in the air after comments made by the University’s President.

In an interview with the school newspaper, OU President Joe Harroz said that the university and its donors would look to other cities outside of Norman to build a new arena. The proposed location near 24th and Rock Creek Road would be the future home of OU sports, including basketball and women’s gymnastics, a seven-mile commute from the current Lloyd Noble Arena.

While some students express concerns about the potential move further from campus, OU officials believe that becoming anchor tenants in a new entertainment district would be beneficial. However, Norman officials have put the idea on hold, stating that further studies need to be conducted before plans are approved.

Last September, Team Norman unveiled big plans for the district, but Harroz warns that if the City of Norman does not move the plan forward, university stakeholders will look elsewhere. The proposed entertainment district is a billion-dollar project financed through private donors and tax revenue, with an 80/20 split.

Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila emphasizes the importance of the project for the city’s future prosperity, citing the potential for new jobs, infrastructure improvements, and increased revenue from visitors. The next steps involve finalizing the tax increment financing committee and the Norman planning committee reviewing the proposal. If approved, the entertainment district could bring significant economic benefits to Norman and attract thousands of visitors to the area.