NC State Asks Centennial Authority to Divert Arena Funds to Men’s Basketball Program
Raleigh, N.C. — In a significant move signaling a shift in athletic funding priorities, NC State University on Wednesday requested that the Centennial Authority redirect funds traditionally set aside for building improvements at Lenovo Center to instead support its men’s basketball program.
Michelle Lee, chief of staff for NC State athletics, presented the request during a committee meeting of the Centennial Authority, which oversees the arena. Lee argued that continued capital investment in the facility is yielding “diminishing returns,” given that the Wolfpack only plays games at the Lenovo Center and conducts practices on campus.
With the arrival of new head coach Will Wade, the university is seeking to reallocate resources to strengthen the basketball program amid rising competition in the ACC. Lee emphasized that the program needs immediate financial support to remain competitive and leverage Wade’s leadership.
The request could mark a pivotal shift in how public sports venues balance infrastructure needs with direct program support. No final decision has been made, and the Centennial Authority is expected to deliberate on the proposal in upcoming sessions.
Read more at: News & Observer
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