WACO, TX - After months of anticipation, the $213 million, 7,000 seat Foster Pavilion basketball arena on the campus of Baylor University opened for official business, hosting its first basketball game on Jan. 2. The arena was standing-room-only, as the hometown Baylor Bears bested the Cornell Big Red, 98-79.

Local media noted the more intimate feel of the new arena vs. its predecessor, the Ferrell Center. With seats a bit closer to the floor, and a slightly smaller overall size (7,000 seats vs. 10,284), the crowd is better drawn into the action - complete with a healthy amount of noise! Sound levels during last night's game frequently exceeded 100 decibels, an expected benefit, as loudness was an intentional part of the design.

Congratulations to the Austin Commercial Austin, TX team for delivering yet another successful sports project for Baylor. Sic 'em, Bears!

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