Game Changers Plans a New Indoor Sports Facility for Lubbock

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Big things are on the horizon for Lubbock sports. Local nonprofit Lubbock Game Changers has announced bold plans for a $50 million indoor sports complex at Bill McAlister Park — and the excitement is already building.

This project is about more than just courts and nets. It’s about creating opportunity — for kids, families, and the entire community. For years, Lubbock has struggled with limited indoor court space. Youth leagues often compete for practice times, and hosting large regional tournaments has been tough. This facility is designed to change that.

Dr. Rhett Butler, founder of Lubbock Game Changers, said it best: “We’re not just building courts, we’re building opportunity. This facility is for everyone, from kids picking up a ball for the first time to competitive athletes chasing big goals.”

Here’s what’s in the plans:

  • Seven full-size basketball courts that can convert into 13 volleyball courts

  • A flexible championship arena for high-level tournaments and events

  • Elevated seating, concessions, and modern amenities for fans

  • Community rooms for clinics, leadership training, and youth development programs

  • Year-round access to leagues, open gym hours, and family-friendly wellness programs

This won’t just be a gym — it will be a destination. A place where kids can develop skills, families can gather, and athletes of all levels can grow.

One of the most unique aspects of the project is how it’s being funded. While the land comes through a park license agreement with the City of Lubbock, no taxpayer dollars will be used for construction or operations. Instead, the entire project will be supported by private donations, business partnerships, and community contributions. Every dollar earned will be reinvested into the mission — covering operations, maintenance, scholarships, and programs to keep the facility accessible, especially for underserved families.

The need for a facility like this is clear. Local teams often have to travel to other cities for tournaments or advanced training. With a complex of this size, those opportunities stay here, along with the economic benefits. Visitors coming in for tournaments will mean more business for local hotels, restaurants, and shops. The project will also create jobs and open the door for mentorship opportunities through coaching and youth leadership programs.

Fundraising is already underway, and early commitments have started to roll in from local donors and sponsors. Opportunities for community involvement — from naming rights to seat dedications — are available, giving everyone a chance to be part of what’s coming.

It’s a big vision, but the energy behind it shows the community is ready. When the doors open, this facility won’t just change the game for sports in Lubbock — it will create a place where kids, families, and athletes come together to play, grow, and connect.

The name says it all. Game Changers isn’t just the name of the nonprofit. It’s exactly what this project promises to be for Lubbock.

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