Duquesne University announces renovation, renaming of athletic center

PITTSBURGH — So long, A.J. Palumbo Center. Hello, UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse.

Duquesne University’s centerpiece athletic facility will undergo a major facelift and reemerge with a new name, the university announced Tuesday.

“A newly revitalized facility will be not only at the heart of our campus but at the heart of this entire community," university President Ken Gormley said in a statement. "This exciting renovation is an important next step in furthering one of Duquesne's key strategic initiatives.”

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The rebranding connects one of the university’s corporate partners with the legacy of one of its greatest athletes. After starring for Westinghouse’s basketball team, Chuck Cooper earned All-American honors and set the Dukes’ career scoring record before becoming the first African-American player drafted by the NBA in 1950.

“Duquesne has always had an unwavering commitment to excellence and progress, and I am so honored that my father's legacy will be a part of this advancement which will so greatly benefit the future students and athletes of this school,” said Chuck Cooper III in a statement.

The new facility will be a “total performance center” while continuing to offer space for community and campus events. New club and suite levels will be added, as well as a state-of-the-art sports medicine and rehabilitation center, improved concession areas and a concourse Hall of Fame, the university said.

Work is expected to begin in March.

Cox Media Group