Winning Spirit Magazine November-December 2016 | Page 5

On October 4th, 1991, workers completed construction on the Delta Center, the new, multi-million-dollar arena that would be the home of the Utah Jazz and a significant community landmark. Over the next few days, fans, community leaders, and LHM Group employees visited the arena as part of several open house events. All in all, over 150,000 people visited the arena at one point or another during that week. The project was a unique one, incorporating many structural elements, like special trusses that had, before that point, never been used in any arena in America. These innovative techniques allowed for the arena to be built in record time, while still establishing an important reputation for quality. In fact, at the time of the open house, many NBA officials considered the Delta Center the best arena in basketball. VIVINT SMART HOME ARENA THROUGH THE YEARS May 22, 1990 Ground Breaking October 9, 1991 Delta Center Dedication Ceremony With the new renovations, the Arena team and the Miller family are confident that this will be the case again and on an ongoing basis. While some elements of the renovations are happening now (like the new court that has been a highlight of the season), the bulk of the work will begin after the 2016-2017 season is over. Progress will continue throughout the summer and into the fall, finally finishing before the 2017-2018 season starts. It’s a big step for the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies, the Utah Jazz, and fans and supporters of the team. It’s also a symbol of the Miller family’s commitment to keeping the team in Utah as well as their desire to be of service wherever the company takes root. When Larry and Gail decided to build a major sports arena, they devoted all of their time and energy to making it an exceptional project. They did the best they could and established a lasting legacy of stewardship. Twenty-five years later, those lessons remain relevant for all of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies. October 24, 1991 Rock band Oingo Boingo headlines the first concert at the Delta Center February 21, 1993 The Delta Center hosts the NBA All-Star Game February 2002 The Arena hosts events for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games March 30, 2005 A John Stockton statue is unveiled ouside the Arena March 23, 2006 A Karl Malone statue is unveiled ouside the Arena September 30, 2006 The Delta Center