UMKC Secures Free Downtown Arena Deal
The University of Missouri‑Kansas City will anchor most of its men’s and women’s basketball home games at the historic Municipal Auditorium, a downtown landmark that has been a basketball hub since 1935. The venue will be provided at no rental cost, allowing the program to redirect funds toward scholarships, recruiting and facility upgrades.
Under the agreement, the city will allocate up to $650,000 to refurbish the coaches’ suite and will split sponsorship revenue, with the university retaining a 65 percent share. Game‑day responsibilities, including security staffing, will remain under UMKC’s purview.
Mark Turgeon, the newly hired head coach for the men’s team, will earn $200,000 annually — a stark contrast to the $1.2 million he commanded at the University of Maryland. Turgeon said the arrangement offers a unique opportunity to build a sustainable program without the burden of venue expenses.
The women’s basketball program also sees a boost, as Candi Whitaker, appointed as head coach, will receive a $350,000 salary. Her hiring reflects the university’s broader strategy to elevate both men’s and women’s sports on an equal footing.
A Historic Setting Reimagined
Municipal Auditorium has been the stage for countless memorable moments, including nine NCAA Final Fours and the 1957 championship game where the University of Kansas faced North Carolina. The NAIA also stages its men’s title game there, cementing the arena’s multi‑event legacy.
Beyond its storied past, the venue is being modernized to meet contemporary standards, from upgraded seating to enhanced broadcast capabilities, ensuring that future generations can experience the excitement of college basketball in a setting that honors its heritage.