Basketball Arena

During the London 2012 Games, the Basketball Arena will host Basketball, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Rugby and the final stages of the Handball competition.
Where is it ?

Key facts

Sport: Basketball, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Rugby, Handball
Location: In the north of the Olympic Park
New or existing: New
Permanent or temporary: Temporary
Number of events: 7

Find out how to get to the Olympic Park during the London 2012 Games

About the Basketball Arena

Construction on the Basketball Arena began in October 2009, with work to erect the 1,000-tonne steel frame starting in March 2010. Construction was completed within budget in June 2011. It is one of the largest-ever temporary venues built for any Games.

During the Games

During the Olympic Games there will be a period of just 22 hours to transform the venue from the Basketball competition to the Handball competition finals. This will include removing the Basketball posts and installing the Handball goals and field of play mat.

Afterwards, during the Paralympic Games, there will be just 12 hours to get ready for Wheelchair Rugby after the Wheelchair Basketball competition finishes, with similar changes needed.

The venue’s ‘back of house’ area will be shared with the Velodrome and BMX Track to make most efficient use of space and resources. This will include two courts in temporary accommodation and areas for catering, security, waste management and the media.

After the Games

The Basketball Arena will be taken down after the Games. Parts of it are expected to be reused or relocated elsewhere in the UK.
Construction was completed on the Basketball Arena  in June 2011.