Located in the heart of Albany, New York, the Times Union Center—now known as the MVP Arena—is a premier destination for entertainment and sports enthusiasts alike. This versatile indoor arena has been a cornerstone of the city's cultural and social life since its opening in 1990. Its modern architecture and state-of-the-art facilities make it a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the vibrant energy of Albany.
The arena opened its doors on January 30, 1990, as the Knickerbocker Arena, with an inaugural performance by none other than Frank Sinatra. Over the years, the venue has undergone several name changes, reflecting its evolving identity. In 1997, it became the Pepsi Arena, and in 2007, it was renamed the Times Union Center after the regional newspaper acquired naming rights. Most recently, in January 2022, the arena adopted its current name, MVP Arena, following a new sponsorship deal with MVP Health Services.
Designed by Crozier Associates and engineered by Clough Harbour & Associates, the arena was constructed at a cost of $69.4 million. Managed by ASM Global, it has consistently been a hub for major events, from sports competitions to concerts and political conventions. One notable event was the New York State Democratic Convention in 2000, where Hillary Clinton was nominated as the U.S. Senate candidate.
Sports fans will find plenty to cheer about at the MVP Arena. The venue is home to the Siena Saints men's basketball team, a major tenant since the arena's opening. Over the years, it has also hosted a variety of other sports teams, including the Albany Firebirds, Albany Empire, Albany Patroons, and Albany River Rats.
The arena is no stranger to high-stakes hockey games. One of the most memorable moments in its history occurred on April 24, 2008, when the Philadelphia Phantoms defeated the Albany River Rats in one of the longest games in American Hockey League history, lasting over five hours and featuring a record-setting 98 saves by River Rats goaltender Michael Leighton.
In addition to regular sporting events, the MVP Arena has hosted exhibition games for major leagues like the NBA, WNBA, and NHL. Tennis legends Andre Agassi and John McEnroe have also graced its courts, adding to the venue's rich sports legacy.
Wrestling enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that the MVP Arena has hosted numerous WWE events, including the iconic 1992 Royal Rumble and the 2000 No Mercy, where Kurt Angle won his first WWF championship. The arena has also been the stage for unforgettable moments like Steve Austin's beer bath to Vince McMahon, Shane McMahon, and The Rock in 1999.
The WWE 24/7 Championship was introduced at the MVP Arena in 2019, further cementing its status as a key location for wrestling fans.
Music lovers are in for a treat at the MVP Arena, which has welcomed a plethora of legendary artists over the years. The arena's first-ever event was a concert by Frank Sinatra, setting the tone for a series of unforgettable performances. The Grateful Dead recorded their 1996 release, Dozin' at the Knick, at the arena, while Metallica, U2, and Phish have all made multiple appearances.
More recent acts include Demi Lovato, Ariana Grande, and Céline Dion, who returned to the arena in 2019 after a 21-year hiatus. Notable sellouts include The Rolling Stones in 2005 and Paul McCartney's Out There Tour in 2014, which sold out in just 28 minutes.
The MVP Arena is also a significant venue for college and high school sports. It has hosted the ECAC Hockey championships, the NCAA basketball East Regional, and the NCAA ice hockey East Regional tournaments. The arena has been a regular host of the NYSPHSAA Wrestling Championships since 2005, contributing significantly to the local economy.
In 2003, the arena was the site of the NCAA basketball East Regional, which saw Syracuse University on their way to their first national championship. The venue has also hosted the Frozen Four and the NCAA women's basketball tournament, showcasing its versatility and importance in collegiate sports.
Arena football has a long history in Albany, with the MVP Arena playing a central role. The Albany Firebirds were the first team to call the arena home, winning ArenaBowl XIII in 1999. After several iterations and rebrandings, the Albany Empire emerged, winning back-to-back NAL championships in 2021 and 2022.
Whether you're a sports fanatic, a music lover, or just looking for a memorable experience, the MVP Arena in Albany offers something for everyone. Its rich history, diverse events, and state-of-the-art facilities make it a cornerstone of the city's cultural and social life. Don't miss the chance to visit this iconic venue and be part of its ongoing story.
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