UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse: The Evolution of Duquesne University's Athletic Arena
For decades, Duquesne University's basketball programs navigated various venues across Pittsburgh, including the Pittsburgh Civic Arena. This changed in 1988 with the opening of a dedicated on-campus home, marking a new era for the university's athletic identity. Today, that legacy continues in the state-of-the-art UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse, a facility that blends modern performance standards with a deep respect for sporting history.
The A.J. Palumbo Center Era
Construction of the original arena began in 1986 and concluded in 1988. Named after businessman and university benefactor Antonio J. Palumbo, the A.J. Palumbo Center provided the stability of an on-campus venue for the university's sports teams.
To keep pace with collegiate athletics, the university implemented two significant upgrade phases. In 2006, a $2 million renovation introduced new basketball offices, video facilities, a recruiting suite, and dedicated training and conditioning areas. A subsequent phase in 2010 focused on the spectator experience, installing new scoreboard systems and chairback seating. While these improvements enhanced comfort, they reduced the basketball seating capacity from 5,358 to 4,406.
Further enhancements were made to the athlete experience through the renovation of the men's and women's basketball and volleyball locker rooms, now known as the Janice and James Schaming Athletic Center.
Transformation into UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse
In October 2018, Duquesne announced an ambitious $45 million project to renovate and expand the existing facility. Starting in March 2019, the project involved an extensive rebuild of the interior while preserving key portions of the original structure. The expansion included a new exterior façade, wider concourses, and premium seating options.
Beyond the game-day experience, the project prioritized student-athlete success by adding expanded academic-support spaces, practice facilities, and enhanced athletic training areas. After 22 months of construction, the facility officially opened on February 2, 2021. The venue's inaugural event was a men's basketball game against Dayton, which Duquesne won with a score of 69–64.
The arena was renamed to honor Chuck Cooper, a Duquesne player from 1947 to 1950 who made history as the first African American ever selected in the NBA draft. To maintain the legacy of the original benefactor, the A.J. Palumbo name was retained for the arena's main atrium.
Key Facts
- Original Opening: 1988 as the A.J. Palumbo Center.
- Major Renovation Cost: $45 million (2019–2021).
- Capacity Change: Reduced from 5,358 to 4,406 during the 2010 upgrades.
- Historical Significance: Named after Chuck Cooper, the first African American drafted into the NBA.
- Opening Victory: Duquesne defeated Dayton 69–64 on February 2, 2021.
Facility Evolution Summary
| Year/Period | Facility Name | Key Updates/Events |
|---|---|---|
| 1986–1988 | A.J. Palumbo Center | Initial construction and opening. |
| 2006 | A.J. Palumbo Center | $2 million upgrade for offices and training. |
| 2010 | A.J. Palumbo Center | New scoreboards and chairback seating. |
| 2019–2021 | UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse | $45 million expansion and full interior rebuild. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the A.J. Palumbo Center named after?
The arena was originally named for Antonio J. Palumbo, a businessman and benefactor of Duquesne University.
Why was the arena renamed to UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse?
The name honors Chuck Cooper, who played for Duquesne from 1947 to 1950 and became the first African American selected in the NBA draft.
What were the main improvements in the 2019–2021 renovation?
The $45 million project added a new exterior façade, wider concourses, premium seating, practice facilities, and expanded spaces for athletic training and academic support.
How did the seating capacity change over time?
The capacity was reduced from 5,358 to 4,406 during the 2010 renovation phase when chairback seating was installed.
What was the first event held at the UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse?
The facility opened on February 2, 2021, with a men's basketball game in which Duquesne defeated Dayton 69–64.