Texas Longhorns Set to Score Big with New Volleyball Arena Proposal

Photos Courtesy of Gensler.

In a significant move for fans of women’s volleyball, the University of Texas has taken the initial steps toward building a state-of-the-art arena tailored specifically for its Longhorns women’s volleyball team. They have issued a request for proposals, inviting private developers to join in a project that promises to elevate the game-day experience while minimizing financial burden on the university.

Spanning nearly 4 acres within the bustling Athletics and Entertainment District on campus, the proposed arena aims to be a focal point for volleyball fans.. With a seating capacity nearing 6,000, the venue will afford the Longhorns a dedicated space that can also be expanded for concerts and larger events, setting the stage for unforgettable experiences.

The facility will be adjacent to the Moody Center, home to the Longhorns basketball program, and the new arena will complement the university's commitment to athletics and community engagement. Currently, the volleyball team plays at Gregory Gym, which has a seating capacity of about 4,000. Built in 1930, it was originally constructed as the home for the university's men’s basketball team. It served as home to volleyball matches from 1974 to 1989, but when central air conditioning was added in 1997, the team returned as tenants in 1998.

As demand for tickets has surged following a string of successful seasons that included back-to-back national championships in 2022 and 2023, as well as a Sweet 16 appearance last season, ticket demand for volleyball tickets on the Austin campus has skyrocketed. The Longhorns averaged 4,867 fans for 9 matches this past season, and sell-outs are normal.

The Longhorns volleyball team has recently witnessed a remarkable surge in attendance. On September 7, 2025, they set a new regular-season attendance record, drawing 10,899 fans at the Moody Center for a match against Stanford. This growing fanbase only adds pressure for the university to expedite the development of a new arena that can accommodate the increasing number of supporters.

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