Daktronics has partnered with the University of Tennessee to design, manufacture and install a total of 24 LED displays, including an 11-display centerhung system, for the multi-purpose Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center, in Knoxville, Tennessee. When basketball returns to the third-largest on-campus basketball arena for the 2025-26 season, the new system will be in place.
Four main video displays each measure nearly 15ft high by 24.5ft wide. Four corner wedge displays fit between the main display, each one measuring nearly 15ft high by 5ft wide. The main displays are each capable of variable content zoning allowing each to show one large image or multiple zones of live video, instant replays, statistics, game information, graphics, animations and sponsorship messages.
Below the main displays, a ring display measures more than 3ft high by 103ft in circumference. This provides supplemental graphics and information. On the underside of the centerhung, two displays are angled toward the sidelines to appeal to those people sitting closer to the court. Each underbelly display measures nearly 6ft high by 20ft wide. All centerhung displays feature 5.9mm pixel spacing.
Each corner of the arena features a corner board, four in total, to bring additional views of replays, stats and messaging. Each measures nearly 11ft high by 18ft wide and features a 5.9mm pixel spacing.
Circling the seating bowl, a 360-degree ribbon display is mounted to the seating fascia. This display measures approximately 2.5ft high by nearly 88ft in length and features a 10mm pixel spacing. Along the sidelines, six scorers tables can be organised in any configuration to meet the needs of the university. Four displays measure roughly 2.5ft high by 10ft wide while two measure 2.5ft high by 6.5ft wide. All six feature 3.9mm pixel spacing. They deliver additional sponsorship opportunities while also offering supplemental game information and graphics.
Outside the arena, two marquee displays welcome fans and guests. Each measures 9.5ft high by 25.5ft wide and features 10mm pixel spacing. They can be used to promote upcoming events, show live games, show highlights and provide many other messaging opportunities for the university.
Danny White, vice chancellor, director of athletics, said: “An essential part of our partnership with Food City is the chance to reinvest in the fan experience, and the upgrades to the video boards are nothing short of impressive. We are proud to have the most dedicated fan base in all of sports, and we are unwavering in our commitment to continually elevate their experience.”
Josh Francois, regional sales manager, Daktronics, added: “The University of Tennessee is on the cutting edge of innovative trends in collegiate athletics, so continuing the Daktronics partnership is a natural progression of maximising the fan experience and providing a massive home court advantage.”
