The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has announced a bold $2.1 billion proposal to build a brand-new, state-of-the-art basketball arena, a project that could reshape the future of Tar Heel athletics and cement Chapel Hill as one of the premier destinations in college sports.
The proposed facility, which would replace the Dean E. Smith Center as the program’s home, is envisioned as a cutting-edge arena designed to rival the best venues in both college and professional basketball. Early plans call for an expanded seating capacity, luxury fan experiences, enhanced locker room facilities, and advanced technology to create an immersive game-day atmosphere.
“This project is about more than just a building,” said UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz. “It’s about investing in the future of our student-athletes, elevating the fan experience, and strengthening the legacy of Carolina basketball for generations to come.”
The $2.1 billion price tag includes not only the arena itself but also surrounding infrastructure, training facilities, and mixed-use development that would benefit both the university and the Chapel Hill community. Officials believe the investment will bring significant economic growth, create jobs, and provide long-term returns through increased tourism and events.
For many, the announcement marks the end of an era. The Smith Center, affectionately known as “the Dean Dome,” has been home to UNC basketball since 1986, hosting countless memorable games and three national championship runs. While beloved by fans, the building has long been considered outdated compared to modern arenas.
Reactions from Tar Heel Nation have been mixed — with excitement over the cutting-edge vision but also nostalgia for the historic Smith Center. University officials emphasized that the Dean Dome’s legacy would be honored throughout the planning process.
Construction timelines have not yet been finalized, but the proposal will require state and private funding, along with approvals from university boards and state lawmakers. If approved, the new arena could break ground within the next few years and open by the early 2030s.
For now, the announcement signals UNC’s intent to remain at the forefront of college basketball — not just on the court, but in the facilities that surround it.
