The University of Maine announced on April 3 new details about the interior design of Morse Arena, a basketball and football operations venue funded by a $10 million gift from alumni Phillip and Susan Morse. The 106,000-square-foot facility is expected to be completed in time for the 2027-28 basketball season.
The updates matter as they mark significant progress in the university’s efforts to enhance athletic facilities and provide improved experiences for fans, athletes, and the campus community.
Inside Morse Arena, spectators will have access to 2,660 seats around Chappelle Court—named after UMaine Sports Hall of Famer Skip Chappelle—with chairback seating designed for clear court views. Enhanced amenities such as easy access to concessions and restrooms are planned. A dedicated student section and space for the Screamin’ Black Bears Pep Band aim to boost game-day atmosphere. Two high-definition video boards and an advanced sound system are also included in the plans.
The court itself will feature a bold outline of Maine at midcourt surrounding the historic athletics logo. “University of Maine” text will appear above the court alongside signage that highlights basketball program achievements. Courtside LED tables are set to offer branding opportunities.
Premium seating with Pine Club access is intended to create an upscale experience during games or other events held at Morse Arena. On football game days, preferred seat holders will have climate-controlled spaces overlooking Morse Field. The arena’s football operations center will house coaches’ offices—including a head coach corner suite—conference rooms, film breakdown areas, and team meeting spaces with modern technology.
Construction began in fall 2025 as part of a broader $320 million investment from the Harold Alfond Foundation supporting UMaine’s Athletics Facilities Master Plan through UMS Transforms.
