Ohio State Unveils New Basketball Court Design at Value City Arena
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State University is giving its men’s and women’s basketball programs a fresh new look with the installation of a redesigned court at Value City Arena. Set to debut for the upcoming 2025 basketball season, the new court brings a modern aesthetic while paying homage to the Buckeyes’ rich basketball tradition.
The redesigned floor features a bold new layout with updated graphics, cleaner lines, and an emphasis on Ohio State branding. At center court, the iconic Block “O” remains a central focal point, now framed with a sleek, minimalist circle that reflects contemporary design trends seen across major college basketball arenas. The hardwood court incorporates subtle gray tones and a fresh stain pattern, giving it a distinctive yet classic feel.
“This new design reflects who we are as a program — strong, innovative, and rooted in tradition,” said Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith. “Value City Arena is one of the premier venues in college basketball, and we want the court to reflect the excellence of our teams and fans.”
Flanking each baseline are bold “OHIO STATE” wordmarks in scarlet and gray, while subtle outlines of the state of Ohio appear in the corners of the court — a nod to the program’s statewide pride and support. One of the most noticeable updates is the use of a darker wood stain to create contrast along the sidelines and baselines, helping define the playing area with clarity and style.
Head coaches Jake Diebler (men’s) and Kevin McGuff (women’s) both expressed excitement about the new look, citing its impact on recruiting, fan experience, and home-court advantage.
“Our players are going to love playing on this court,” said Diebler. “It’s clean, sharp, and speaks to the energy we’re building within the program.”
The court’s unveiling also coincides with broader renovations to Value City Arena, which include upgraded lighting, sound systems, and fan amenities aimed at elevating the game-day experience. Ohio State’s partnership with a national court design firm ensured that the new layout met both aesthetic and performance standards, with durability and player safety remaining top priorities.
As anticipation builds for the 2025 season, the new court symbolizes a new era of Buckeye basketball — one that blends tradition with a bold vision for the future. Fans will get their first look at the court during the season-opening doubleheader this November.
