The familiar squeak of sneakers, the echo of bouncing basketballs and the chatter of athletes warming up fill the gym every day. Construction crews move in and out, carrying equipment, painting walls and measuring floors. The gym is in transition, and no one knows exactly when it will be finished. But for the athletes who use it most, the changes are already inspiring a mix of reflection and anticipation.
When junior center Merit Innocent steps onto the court for the women’s basketball team, she doesn’t just see the hardwood; she sees a glimpse of the program’s future. Innocent has played countless hours in the current gym, a space she describes as “functional but dated.” Soon, she and her teammates will get to compete and train in a facility that matches the school’s rising ambitions.
“This new gym is more than just bigger seats or newer floors,” Innocent said. “It’s a statement that we’re stepping into Division I. It feels like the school finally believes in us, and that motivates everyone to elevate our game.”
The university has announced plans for a major upgrade to its athletic facility, transforming it from a Division II gym into a modern space suitable for Division I competition. Coaches and athletes alike say the changes will be felt across all sports, not just basketball.
Assistant Coach Ari Kovosto echoed her sentiments.
“Moving to a DI-caliber facility isn’t just about appearances. It’s about recruiting, retaining talent and giving our athletes every possible advantage,” Kovosto said. “Right now, we make do, but the upgrade will allow us to fully compete at the next level.”
Players from other sports are also looking ahead. Though, some like senior volleyball player Evie Kaygirad are reflecting on their time in the old gym.
“We’ve had to share space and work around other schedules for years,” Kaygirad said. “I won’t get to play in the new gym, but I can’t wait to come back and visit. Knowing that future athletes will have dedicated courts and equipment makes me proud to leave the program in their hands.”
The men’s basketball team is eagerly anticipating the change as well. Sophomore Andre Pasha sees the upgraded facility as a boost to the team’s morale.
“It’s crazy to think about going from where we are now to what’s coming,” Pasha said. “It makes you want to work harder because the school is putting in the effort for us. It’s a signal that they believe in our potential.”
Even freshmen like Owen Hotaling are excited to be part of a program on the rise.
“I’ve only experienced the old gym, but hearing about the new one makes me even more motivated to be part of this team’s journey,” Hotaling said.
As construction continues and the timeline for completion remains uncertain, players walk the gym’s worn floors while imagining what’s to come, sharing the space with crews installing state-of-the-art equipment. For seniors like Kaygirad, it’s a bittersweet moment—leaving behind memories while looking forward to the future. For underclassmen like Innocent, Pasha and Hotaling, it’s a glimpse of the opportunities ahead.
“This gym has always been more than just a building,” Innocent said. “It’s where we’ve worked, struggled, and grown together. The new facility will carry that same spirit forward, but at a whole new level.”
With every hammer, every coat of paint and every floor measurement, the Chargers are witnessing the transformation firsthand. For those who call this gym home, the message is clear: the program is moving forward, the next generation will have the tools to succeed and the future of Charger athletics is bright.
