NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Placement of the final steel beam for the basketball operations center and practice facility on Nov. 2 marked the latest important milestone in the historic and ongoing Vandy United effort, part of the university’s $3.2 billion Dare to Grow campaign.
Vanderbilt, in collaboration with construction firm Barton Malow, has accomplished another construction milestone. The “topping out” of the basketball operations center was completed with the placement today of the last structural piece. Topping out is an age-old tradition in which the tallest and final structural beam is placed on a project to complete the building’s frame. In addition to workers signing the beam before it’s hoisted and installed, an evergreen tree and American flag are attached as part of the topping-out tradition.
The ceremony took place less than nine months after breaking ground on the site. One of Vandy United’s original cornerstone projects, the practice facility is part of an overall renovation and reimagining of FirstBank Stadium’s north end zone footprint.
The basketball practice facility will feature two spacious practice gyms, locker rooms and student-athlete lounges, as well as a weight room and athletic training facility. As a basketball hub in the Frist Athletics Village, the facility embodies Vanderbilt’s fully integrated approach to athletics, which sees intercollegiate competition and teamwork as vital means of fostering our student-athletes’ lifelong learning and growth.
Ongoing north end zone enhancements will significantly enhance the fan experience at FirstBank Stadium. These enhancements include:
- New videoboard
- North concourse expansion linking the east and west concourses
- New premium hospitality areas
- New second-level and field-level premium seating
For more information about premium seating opportunities that bring game day to life like never before, supporters are encouraged to complete the premium seating interest form.
About Vandy United
Launched in March 2021 as the largest undertaking of its kind in Vanderbilt Athletics’ history, Vandy United is an unprecedented investment in our student-athletes and athletic programs through facilities and operational enhancements. Harnessing the support of many generous donors and the commitment of Vanderbilt University, the campaign will create the best student-athlete experience in the country and an unforgettable fan experience. Learn more at vucommodores.com/vandyunited.
About the Dare to Grow Campaign
Launched in Vanderbilt’s 150th year, Dare to Grow is a $3.2 billion comprehensive campaign, the most ambitious in university history. The campaign will succeed through three essential pathways—Destination Vanderbilt, Discovery Vanderbilt and One Vanderbilt—and by furthering the culture of belonging, innovation and collaboration that defines the Vanderbilt Way. Learn more at vu.edu/daretogrow.
