The Charlotte Hornets have just announced plans to spend upwards of $100 million to build a massive new practice facility in the heart of our city.
In a recent Charlotte City Council meeting, Hornets Sports & Entertainment (HSE) unveiled renderings for a $70 – 100 million state-of-the-art practice facility adjacent to the Spectrum Center. This investment drastically shifts the city’s previously allocated $30 million for the practice facility towards enhancements of the Spectrum Center itself.
“Hornets Sports & Entertainment is dedicated to investing in this community and the City of Charlotte, and the development of the new practice facility site is a key aspect in that process,” the Hornets said in a press release. “HSE is committed to fully funding the practice facility costs above the $30 million provided by the city, and we have teamed with longtime Hornets partner Novant Health to offer a destination for leading-edge sports medicine and orthopedic care as part of the mixed-use practice facility development. The new practice facility is the next step as we work toward our vision of building the premier franchise in the NBA and having world-class facilities.”
Info on the #Hornets practice facility 👇 pic.twitter.com/XiXAxd3n90
— Schuyler Callihan (@Callihan_) February 27, 2024
Scheduled to open in 2026, the proposed facility is part of a broader initiative to upgrade the Spectrum Center, discussions of which have been ongoing for nearly two years. In June 2022, the City Council approved a $275 million proposal aimed at revitalizing the uptown arena, including additional seating, upgraded concession stands, and concourse improvements.
HSE’s new financial plan is expected to save the city approximately $5 million, further aligning with Charlotte’s economic development goals. The Hornets’ renovation strategy, outlined in January, is set to be reviewed by Charlotte’s Economic Development Committee in March, with a city council vote on the new terms to follow. This development marks a significant step forward in enhancing Charlotte’s sports infrastructure and the Hornets’ competitive edge.
