Time for a new Assembly Hall

Assembly Hall needs to go. That statement might be heresy to many IU basketball fans.

The place is literally falling apart. The basketball game against Iowa was postponed because of several seats being damaged by a large piece of metal that fell from the ceiling. Instead of giving the place a face lift, it should be flattened and rebuilt.

Athletic Director Fred Glass recently said that Assembly Hall has been around for 42 years, and he wants it to be around for 42 more years. An 84-year-old stadium would put Assembly Hall in the same category as Wrigley Field — full of history, but crumbling.

While the history of Wrigley may make it a cool place to visit, nobody — including honest Cubs fans — would call it a top-tier venue. Even the Yankees moved on from their tradition-rich stadium.

A big concern with a new stadium is cost. I’m sure Glass evaluated every option and concluded that renovating Assembly Hall is the most cost-effective option. The recent damage should change that equation. What will the University tolerate in the name of “tradition?” Endless repairs? More canceled games? Injuries to fans?

A better fan experience is another important reason that a new basketball venue should be built. Anyone who’s sat in the corner balcony sections knows that Assembly Hall offers some horrible views.

More importantly, there are only two sections that put students near the court. A new Assembly Hall should be built like Michigan State’s Breslin Center. MSU students are all in a level next to the court.

Assembly Hall can get crazy now. Imagine how difficult it would be for road teams to concentrate if the students were right on top of them.

Glass and the University should use the damage incident as the centerpiece of a new fundraising plan. Cindy Simon Skjodt gave $40 million for renovations. I’m sure Glass can find another $200 million from the large pool of IU alumni.

Saying goodbye to an old friend is tough, but in the case of Assembly Hall, it’s for the best.

 Stefan Jensen