Larry Pratt’s lead commitment of $2 million—coupled with other leadership gifts—enabled UT to finance the top-notch facility entirely through private funds. The complex provides UT’s basketball student-athletes very impressive headquarters during practices and games as well as for medical treatment, film sessions and other team-oriented functions.
The project, which involved demolition of the old infrastructure and a complete rebuild of that space, resulted in brand-new dressing, meeting and film rooms for both teams and a state-of-the-art sports medicine area. The upgrades certainly enhance the experiences of current Vols and Lady Vols, but they also provide an impressive showpiece during the recruiting process.
“I want to first thank Larry Pratt for his continued leadership giving and comprehensive support of the University of Tennessee and its athletics programs,” UT Director of Athletics Phillip Fulmer said. “Larry led a group of project donors who share our commitment to maintaining championship-level basketball programs, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped make this project a reality.
“This beautiful new Larry Pratt Basketball Locker Room Complex gives our men’s and women’s teams a state-of-the-art locker room and sports medicine space that ranks among the very best in the country at any level—collegiate or professional.”
Both teams and their coaching staffs were present for the dedication and are grateful for the generosity of donors responsible for the magnificent makeover.