NBA Stadium Showcase: Quicken Loans Arena
The 2017 NBA Finals now moves to Cleveland for Games 3 and 4 of the series. Since 1994, the Cavaliers have played home games at the Quicken Loans Arena, located on the southern edge of downtown Cleveland, immediately adjacent to Progressive Field (Indians home ballpark). From 1994 through 2005, the building was known as Gund Arena, prior to Quicken Loans founder Dan Gilbert purchasing the team from the Gund family.
After playing in the old Cleveland Arena from 1970 through 1974, the Cavs spent 20 seasons taking the court at the Richfield Coliseum, situated 21 miles south of downtown Cleveland and 15 miles north of downtown Akron.
The Quicken Loans Arena (nicknamed The Q) was originally constructed at a cost of $100 million. The facility underwent a $40 million renovation after Gilbert assumed majority ownership in ‘05. Beginning this offseason, the structure will undergo a substantial $140 million upgrade, intended to dramatically improve common and entrance spaces.
The Q has the second largest seating capacity in the NBA at 20,562, with 60 percent of seats found in the lower bowl. The stadium features 92 luxury suites, 2,000 club seats, three private clubs (VIP Club, Court Club, Platinum Lounge), a two-story Cavs team shop and the second largest scoreboard in the association.
One of the most unique culinary aspects of The Q is the contribution of Cleveland native/celebrity chef Michael Symon, whose burgers, sandwiches, brats, salads and milkshakes are available for purchase. Other Ohio based chefs like Jonathon Sawyer and Rocco Whalen also offer fare thoughout the venue.
The Quaker Steak & Lube racing themed restaurant chain also has a presence in the arena.
In addition to possessing one of the largest seating capacities and scoreboards, The Q lays claim to a massive 55,000-square-foot underground loading and storage area. The space is large enough to house Cavs player parking, along with 26 tour buses or semi-trucks.
