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DePaul Gearing up for Wintrust Arena Opening

Wintrust Arena

DePaul University is gearing up for the opening of Wintrust Arena, which is now just months away from its debut. 

Currently under construction next to McCormick Place, Wintrust Arena is set to open this year and be the home of DePaul Blue Demons basketbal. The men’s basketball program is slated to play its first game at the venue on November 11, while the women’s program will follow with its debut at the arena on December 8.

In the meantime, construction on Wintrust Arena continues to make progress. Seats have been installed in portions of the arena, one of the many finish touches that has either been put into place or is on track to be added to the venue soon.

A media tour on Wednesday gave officials a chance to discuss the venue’s fan and player amenities, and to provide an update on sales for the arena. Thus far, DePaul is encouraged by the response from ticket holders as the university plans for its move to Wintrust Arena. More from The Chicago Tribune:

While DePaul’s success as a program hinges on wins and losses, the arena’s success also will be tied to whether the Blue Demons can draw a crowd.

Athletic director Jean Lenti Ponsetto said a majority of lower-bowl season-ticket seating has been filled and the response to early ticket sales has been positive.

“After the first day, the average ticket purchase last year was three per person,” she said. “After the first day (this year), it was 5.9 per person. People, you can tell, are really excited.”

DePaul is moving its basketball program from Allstate Arena, the facility located in suburban Rosemont that had been its home since 1980. Wintrust Arena is also expected to host numerous events in addition to basketball.

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