A connector between the oldest and newest buildings on the Lawrenceville campus of Rider University is being constructed to house new men’s and women’s basketball office suites. The 2,750 square foot office space is the third phase of a multi-phased project to expand and renovate Rider’s historic Alumni Gymnasium. The new office suites are expected to be completed in September.

Construction on the next phase of the project, right on the heels of the new office space, will be the creation of new locker rooms for men’s and women’s basketball. The locker rooms are scheduled to be completed and ready for use right before the start of the 2016-17 season in November.

“It is exciting that the project continues to move forward thanks to donor support and board approval,” said Rider Director of Athletics Don Harnum. “Every completed phase of the project will enhance the daily operations of our basketball programs and bolster our recruiting efforts.”

In July of 2015 groundbreaking took place on construction of an 8,400 square foot basketball practice facility, the second phase of the multi-phased Alumni Gym project. The practice facility, which was completed in April 2016, houses Jason Thompson court. Thompson, a member of the NBA’s Toronto Raptors, is a 2008 Rider graduate and his generous contribution to the project led to the naming of the basketball court in the new facility in his honor.

“Jason has always been a great ambassador for Rider University, both during his time as a student-athlete here and now as a graduate playing in the NBA,” Harnum said. “Jason Thompson Court recognizes him for his financial commitment to the Campaign for Rider Athletics, his passion for Rider basketball and his willingness to help us move the program forward."

The first phase of the multi-phased project, completed two years ago, included the addition of a state-of-the-art HD video board; modern heating, air conditioning and lighting; new flooring; a new sound system and branding initiatives which gave Alumni Gym a much-updated look and feel.

“I’d like to thank our campaign leadership team and all our donors who have supported this important project,” said Harnum. “It will dramatically enhance the daily lives of our student-athletes and coaches, help with recruiting and afford us greater scheduling flexibility for basketball, volleyball and wrestling which all compete in Alumni Gym.”

The Alumni Gym Campaign is funded entirely through the generous support of private donations. Future phases of the project include expanding the spectator seating capacity with additional premium seats, enhanced fan amenities and a strength and conditioning center.