UNO, Baxter Auto Extend Naming Rights Partnership for Baxter Arena

Ten years after Baxter Arena opened its doors, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and Baxter Auto are renewing their commitment to the community with a naming rights extension and a fresh new look.

➡️ What’s new: UNO and Baxter Auto have extended the naming rights agreement for Baxter Arena through at least June 30, 2030. The extension coincides with the arena’s 10-year anniversary and includes plans for updated exterior signage to reflect the continued partnership.

💡 Why it matters:

• Baxter Arena is the home venue for Omaha hockey, men’s and women’s basketball, and volleyball teams.

• This renewed commitment ensures Baxter Arena remains a thriving hub for Omaha Athletics, community events, and world-class entertainment.

• Baxter Arena has served as host to more than 3.5 million total visitors over the last decade.

• Omaha Athletics generated $45.9 million in economic impact in 2024, according to a University of Nebraska System report.

• With 100+ Omaha Athletics events, 145+ non-UNO entertainment events including concerts, shows, corporate and community events, and 35+ high school and college graduations each year, Baxter Arena is a key driver of economic impact and community engagement in Omaha.

🎤 What they’re saying:

• Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, UNO Chancellor: “This partnership represents far more than a name on a building. It’s a decade-long commitment to shared values of service and community impact. Baxter Auto’s support has helped transform Baxter Arena into a place where our university, city, and region come together. As we look ahead, I’m excited to build on this legacy and continue serving Omaha through collaboration, innovation, and creating memorable experiences.”

• Adrian Dowell, UNO Vice Chancellor / Director of Athletics: “The Baxter name has become synonymous with UNO and Omaha Athletics, giving our institution the brand equity to forge meaningful partnerships across our community.  We are grateful and excited to continue this impactful partnership with Baxter Auto which has helped us build the notable momentum in athletics, entertainment, and engagement in Omaha and beyond.”

• Mickey Anderson, Baxter Auto President: "It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years since Baxter Arena opened its doors. From the start, it’s been more than just a venue – it’s a place where the Omaha community comes together. As a company founded right here in Omaha, we’re proud to keep supporting a space that means so much to this city, and we’re excited to continue our partnership with UNO and Baxter Arena."

📈 Baxter Arena and Omaha Athletics by the numbers: For the teams that compete in Baxter Arena,

• 5 NCAA Division I Tournament appearances between the hockey, volleyball, and men’s basketball programs since 2015.

• 5 conference titles won and 9 championship game appearances between the hockey, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball programs since 2015.

• The hockey program ranks in the top six for attendance nationally, averaging over 6,200 per game.

• 160,000+ guests filed into Baxter Arena for the 2024-2025 sports season to watch Omaha men’s and women’s basketball, hockey, and volleyball.

📍 Notable events:

• President Barack Obama’s 2016 visit, making history as the first sitting president to visit the university.

• U.S. Olympic Team trials for Curling (2017, 2021).

• Concerts and comedic performances featuring Pitbull, Willie Nelson, Panic at the Disco, Jim Gaffigan, Larry the Cable Guy, Jeff Foxworthy, and more.

• Community events including the Annual Jet Award gala and the Aksarben Ball.

⭐️ Arena recognitions:

• In 2024, Baxter Arena was voted Omaha’s Choice Awards Winner for Best Arena and First Place Winner for Indoor Sports Complex by the Omaha World Herald.

• SAVOR…Omaha, Baxter Arena’s food and beverage provider, received the Venues Today Silver Spoon award in the “best new concept in food and drink” category.

⚡ What’s next: Look for updated signage at Baxter Arena later this year as UNO commemorates a decade of game days, graduations, concerts, and community milestones.