Oregon Opens Matthew Knight Arena In Style

words_Brandon Richard

Much has been made of the University of Oregon’s brand new $230 million dollar Matthew Knight Arena, which was named after the late son of chief donor and Nike Chairman Phil Knight. Particularly grabbing headlines is the arena’s unique basketball court, which was of course designed by legendary sneaker designer Tinker Hatfield. A salute to the tree-covered region and the original 1939 NCAA Championship Oregon “Tall Firs” basketball team, the court is unlike anything we’ve ever seen.

After months of build and anticipation, Matthew Knight Arena finally opened its doors to the public, as the Oregon Ducks hosted the Trojans of USC on Thursday night. Appropriately, Phil Knight was in the house amongst the 12,400 Duck faithful for the festivities. Behind a much-needed bench contribution from guard Malcolm Armstead, Oregon was able to hold off USC by a score of 68-62, making sure that ‘The Matt’ was opened in style.

Take a look at some photos from the big night below.

images via ESPN