Illinois Fighting Illini
This new renovation conveys the University’s intent to reach and recruit
new basketball talent into their program while telling the stories that brought them here.
Celebrating the final phase of renovation at State Farm Center, the University of Illinois partnered with Dimensional Innovations to design a space paying tribute to over a century of basketball history. The Mannie L. Jackson Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame is a place to inspire all fans and future athletes and highlight the hundreds of athletes that define the legacy, energy, and stories of the Fighting Illini.
Located near the main entry, the 1,500 square foot, U-shaped space tells its story through three lenses: The Game, The Teams and The Fans.
In The Game exhibition area, exhibits focus on individual players, coaches, and winning moments, through displays of past and current uniforms, memorabilia, and a large interactive display for viewing player stats and clips. The Teams exhibit tells the story of four influential team’s history. Dedicated cases span the south wall, each with a large graphic print commemorating key players. The third zone celebrates The Fans and history which made everything possible, extending directly into the main concourse through an operable wall.
A large white wall wraps the central core, helping to open up the dark space while highlighting historic artifacts and joining the three zones together. Operable glass panels and removable resin casts allow the University to replace artifacts with new memorabilia.
Opposite the core, four large orange cases highlight four special teams seasons. Glass and aluminum cases feature printed text panels and glass shelves, fully customizable for future trophies.
Learn more about Archival Casework, Branded Fan Experiences, Community Spaces, and Hands-On Interactives.
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Drew Berst
Executive Director
Drew Berst is an Executive Director and oversees the Collegiate Sports and Higher Education practices at Dimensional Innovations. Berst lives and breathes the college experience and is the single point of accountability for all... more about Drew Berst
Eric Buckels
Associate Account Director