CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WGHP) — The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is exploring making major changes to its iconic arena, according to Greg Barnes of 247Sports’ Inside Carolina.
The Dean E. Smith Center, or the “Dean Dome” as it is commonly called, was built in 1986 and has since housed the North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball team.
The venue is also used for events such as local high school graduations.
Inside Carolina reports that athletic director Bubba Cunningham “has commissioned a working group to explore Smith Center renovation options in addition to considering the possibility of a new arena.”
The group is said to be considering both on and off-campus sites for a new arena. Both men’s and women’s basketball programs could play in the same venue as well under the new plan.
Currently, the women’s team plays in Carmichael Arena. The men’s team played in Carmichael Arena prior to the Smith Center.
