Iowa Athletics announced this week that it has secured the hardwood surface that once hosted the decisive games of the NCAA Houston Regional Elite Eight.
The court, built by Connor Sports, will take the place of the worn parquet that has served the Hawkeyes in Carver‑Hawkeye Arena for more than a decade.
From Elite Eight to Home Court
The decision to replace the aging floor came after a thorough assessment that revealed the existing surface had reached its typical replacement cycle, which began in 2016 when it was last renewed.
Installation of the new maple wood court is scheduled to run from May 18 through June 6, a window chosen to minimize disruption before the upcoming season.
While the new surface will be ready for play, the historic floor will not be discarded; instead, it will be carefully dismantled and preserved as part of a commemorative collection for fans and alumni.
Connor Sports, a longtime supplier of championship‑level basketball arenas, will oversee the fabrication and installation, ensuring that the new court meets the exacting standards set by the NCAA tournament.
The move underscores Iowa’s commitment to providing its student‑athletes with a world‑class playing environment while honoring the legacy of past achievements on the same hardwood.