McCamish Pavilion

🏗️ Origins as Alexander Memorial Coliseum

Originally opened on November 30, 1956, as Alexander Memorial Coliseum, the structure was named in honor of William A. Alexander, a pivotal figure in Georgia Tech's athletic history. Designed by Aeck Associates of Atlanta, the arena was noted for its innovative 270-foot diameter dome, constructed without internal support pillars to ensure unobstructed sightlines for all spectators. This architectural feat replaced the smaller Third Street Gymnasium.

🔄 Renovations and Rebranding

Throughout its history, the Coliseum underwent several significant renovations. Major upgrades in 1986 and 1989-1990 expanded seating capacity. A substantial renovation in 1995-1996, preceding the 1996 Summer Olympics, involved lowering the court, adding luxury suites, and enhancing seating. From 1996 to 2005, it was known as Alexander Memorial Coliseum at McDonald's Center due to a sponsorship agreement. The arena was closed for a $45 million renovation in March 2011, reopening on November 9, 2012, as Hank McCamish Pavilion, named in recognition of a generous donation from the McCamish family. The playing surface retained the designation "Cremins Court."

📣 The "Thrillerdome" Nickname

The arena earned its enduring nickname, "The Thrillerdome," from former Georgia Tech radio announcer Brad Nessler. The moniker arose from the venue's reputation for hosting numerous closely contested games, particularly during the electrifying 1983-84 season, capturing the excitement and dramatic finishes often witnessed within its walls.

🏀 Collegiate Athletics

The pavilion is most prominently recognized as the home court for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets men's and women's basketball teams. They have utilized the venue from its opening in 1956 until 2011, and again from 2012 to the present day, following extensive renovations.

🏆 Professional Sports

The arena has also hosted professional basketball franchises. The Atlanta Hawks of the National Basketball Association (NBA) played their home games at the Coliseum during two distinct periods: from 1968 to 1972, and again from 1997 to 1999. More recently, the Atlanta Dream of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) utilized McCamish Pavilion for their home schedules in 2017 and 2018.

🏐 Other Uses

Beyond basketball, the venue occasionally hosts other events, including matches for the Georgia Tech women's volleyball team, particularly those anticipated to draw larger crowds that would exceed the capacity of the O'Keefe Gymnasium.

⭐ A Venue of Upsets and Excitement

Since its renovation and rebranding as McCamish Pavilion, the arena has developed a reputation for hosting numerous unexpected victories for the Georgia Tech men's basketball team. The venue has witnessed the downfall of 14 ranked opponents, including five teams within the top ten, solidifying its status as a challenging environment for visiting teams.

🏟️ Architectural Significance

The pavilion retains its distinctive domed roof and the structural integrity provided by its 32 steel support beams, elements carried over from the original Alexander Memorial Coliseum. These features contribute to its unique architectural identity while the interior has been thoroughly modernized to meet contemporary standards for athletic and event venues.

🤝 Community and Athletics

McCamish Pavilion stands as a vital asset to both Georgia Tech and the broader Atlanta community. Its role extends beyond collegiate sports, serving as a significant venue for professional basketball, major sporting events, and important civic gatherings, underscoring its multifaceted importance.

📜 References