Since its inaugural season in 1903, BYU’s men’s basketball team ranks No. 13 nationally among NCAA Div. I men’s basketball programs in all-time victories with 1,728.
Along the way, the Cougars have claimed 29 conference championships and received 38 postseason invites, including 27 NCAA tournament appearances and two NIT titles in 1951 and 1966.
In 2016, a new milestone was added to the program’s history with the construction of a dedicated practice facility. Construction of the BYU Marriott Center Annex — a 38,000-square-foot building situated directly east of the Marriott Center — began in February and was completed in December.
The annex includes a replica of the Marriott Center floor, shooting areas on both ends of the court, a strength and conditioning center, training rooms, offices and team meeting rooms. A basketball hall of honor will showcase the history and tradition of BYU basketball.
“I want to thank the many donors who have been so kind and generous — their support has been invaluable,” said Dave Rose, BYU men’s basketball head coach. “This facility is a major commitment to our basketball program. It will enhance the student-athlete experience, the development of our players and recruiting.”
Geneva Rock Products was invited to assist on the project and is proud to be one of several donors who funded this much-needed facility for BYU’s men’s and women’s basketball programs.
“It’s always been a priority of ours to be involved in building up the communities we work in,” said Jay Ritchie, vice president of ready-mix concrete for Geneva Rock Products. “BYU does a great deal of good for the state of Utah and we are happy to have a part in building this Marriott Center Annex for them.”
Prior to construction of the new facility, BYU’s men’s and women’s basketball teams did not have a central location for conducting practices. Coaches worked with production staff at the Marriott Center to sneak practices in between shows, events and celebrations. When the Marriott Center was unavailable, practices were organized at various locations, including the Richards Building, where gyms are also open to and regularly occupied by students and rec teams.
The new building gives both teams a defined space for practice and team meetings.
Geneva Rock Products was able to donate more than 1,000 yards of concrete for the project. The Marriott Center has been home to BYU basketball since it opened on Dec. 3, 1971. The facility is currently the fifth-largest college basketball arena in the country.
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