The following is a submitted article from the Arkansas Lightning:
LITTLE ROCK – December 27th, 2024 – The Little Rock Lightning is proud to announce plans for a state-of-the-art arena that will serve as a hub for professional basketball and community growth in Little Rock. With an estimated budget of $30 million, this ambitious project is designed to provide a premier space for athletic events, community programs, and youth engagement initiatives.
The arena will have a seating capacity of 2,500, complete with five luxury skyboxes, a Legends Room to honor local and national basketball heroes, and classrooms to support the organization’s after-school programs. This multi-functional facility aims to go beyond sports, offering educational and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
“Our mission has always been to grow the community through basketball and give our youth the opportunity to experience professional sports,” said Jushun Blackmon, co-founder of the Little Rock Lightning. “This arena represents more than just a venue; it’s a place for connection, empowerment, and creating lasting memories.”
Community Leaders Show Their Support
The project has garnered enthusiastic support from local leaders who recognize its transformative potential.
Mayor Frank Scott, Jr.:
“The foundations of a strong and thriving City are the entrepreneurs whose innovations and outreach support sustainable, long-term growth. This arena project is a perfect example of how an organization can improve quality of life and benefit the community. We are excited about the opportunities that await our City and its young people with the construction of this new arena.”
Tara Shephard, State Representative, District 79:
“The Lightning Arena will be a beacon of hope and opportunity—a place where kids can dream big, the community can come together, and partnerships can thrive. Together, we are building more than an arena; we are building a legacy for Little Rock.”
Andrea Lewis, City Director, Ward 6:
“As someone deeply committed to fostering financial literacy and youth development in our community, I am proud to support the arena project led by the Lightdentity Foundation. This initiative is about more than building a facility; it’s about creating opportunities, empowering our youth, and strengthening the fabric of our neighborhoods and beyond. Projects like this align with my vision of investing in education and community engagement, ensuring a brighter future for families across Little Rock.”
Benito Lubazibwa, Founder of ReMix Ideas:
“This building represents more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a symbol of hope and opportunity for the Little Rock community. By fostering community growth, sports excellence, economic mobility, and the empowerment of youth both on and off the court, it aligns with the values ReMix Ideas stands for. This arena will be a hub for hope and the realization of dreams.”
Key Features of the Arena
• Seating for 2,500 Fans: Designed to provide an intimate yet electrifying game-day experience.
• Luxury Skyboxes: Five exclusive suites offering premium views and amenities.
• Legends Room: A tribute to basketball icons and community leaders, with opportunities for supporters to contribute through the innovative ‘Brick by Brick’ pledge program.
• Classrooms for Youth Development: Dedicated spaces for tutoring, financial literacy programs, and basketball training, continuing the Lightning’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Economic and Community Impact
The arena is projected to generate significant economic activity in Little Rock, creating jobs during construction and after its completion. Furthermore, it will provide a venue for up to 15 home games per season, youth basketball training, and a variety of community events.
“This project reflects our belief in the power of sports to inspire and uplift,” added Blackmon. “We’re thrilled to partner with local businesses, donors, and fans to make this vision a reality.”
How to Get Involved
As part of the fundraising efforts, the Lightning has launched the ‘Brick by Brick’ pledge program, offering the community an opportunity to leave their mark on the arena. Donors can purchase engraved bricks for walkways, walls, or the Legends Room, with options for personalized keychains as keepsakes.
To participate, visit the Brick by Brick donation page or email [email protected] for more information.
Timeline
• Land Acquisition: Fall 2024
• Construction Start: Late 2024/Early 2025
• Grand Opening: Fall/Winter 2026
The Little Rock Lightning Arena is set to become a beacon of community pride and a symbol of the city’s dedication to growth, sportsmanship, and opportunity.
About the Little Rock Lightning
Founded five years ago, the Little Rock Lightning is a professional basketball team committed to inspiring the community through sports. The team, co-founded by Jushun and Miya Blackmon, focuses on providing youth with opportunities to engage in professional basketball and fostering community development.
About the Lightdentity Foundation
The Lightdentity Foundation, the team’s nonprofit arm, supports youth development through after-school programs, financial literacy training, and basketball mentorship.
