LOS ANGELES – Loyola Marymount University's Gersten Pavilion is sporting a fresh look for the 2019-20 season. Guided by a comprehensive branding initiative, LMU refinished the court floor with a new athletics mark in brighter and more vivid shades of crimson and blue that shine beneath newly improved lighting.
"The enhancements to Gersten Pavilion will make a tremendous impact this season," said Athletic Director
Craig Pintens. "The design is unique as each side of the court has its own identity. The vivid colors really capture the essence of LMU's history and ambitions, and the palm trees remind everyone that we have one of the most beautiful campuses in the country. The new lights not only highlight the design, but will also enhance the fan experience with instant on and off capabilities."
The court concept was designed by Daake Design, based in Omaha, Nebraska, and the implementation was completed by Pacific Floor Company.
The LMU Athletics mark shines as the center court focal point, and faces the student section where the television cameras are positioned for national and regional broadcasts. Below the center court logo sits a darkened wood stain of palm trees that evoke the spirit of LMU's coastal location in Los Angeles.
One of the unique elements of the court is the transition of colors that gives each baseline its own character. Primary colors take focus before converging along the two sidelines. The new West Coast Conference logo is proudly displayed along each basketball key and volleyball service line.
Court lines for volleyball and basketball allow for an easy transition between sports, with the extended men's three-point line visible for the first time in NCAA history. In early June, the NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel approved moving the 3-point line to the international basketball distance of 22 feet, 1¾ inches in men's basketball. The rule will be effective for the 2019-20 season across Division I.
In addition to the new floor, the overhead lighting has been improved throughout the arena. Industry leader Musco Lighting's new additions to Gersten Pavilion will make the games brighter than ever. Additionally, the new system allows for creative programing during starting lineup introductions, breaks in the action, and following critical plays.
The first opportunity to see the new court is 11 a.m. on Aug. 17, 2019, when the Lions volleyball team opens their season with a free home exhibition game against Long Beach State.
Season tickets are now available, as LMU looks to build on last season's NCAA Tournament run.
