The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Photo by: Brantley Bargerhuff
Craft O’Neal Commits to Bartow Arena Renovation Project
7/30/2025 9:19:00 AM | Men's Basketball, Women's Basketball, Women's Volleyball
BIRMINGHAM – The UAB Department of Athletics has announced Craft O'Neal has made a leadership commitment to the Bartow Arena renovation project.
"My family and I have been lifelong UAB Basketball fans and have many fond memories together in Bartow Arena over the years," O'Neal said. "We believe in the important role of college athletics and have invested in this transformative project because of the value this facility provides to the community and enhances the university as a whole."
Craft, a respected figure in Birmingham's business community and an active fundraiser for many civic organizations, is the chairman and CEO of O'Neal Industries. He is a long-time supporter of UAB Athletics as a season ticket holder and has played an integral role in the growth of UAB Athletics and serves on the Executive Committee of the UAB Athletics Foundation Board.
"None of us were surprised when Craft stepped forward to help," said Director of Athletics Mark Ingram. "He has been with us every step of the way, leading by example. He has supported many projects at UAB, including several within athletics. We are so thankful for his continued generosity and belief in what we're doing."
The $14.6 million Bartow Arena renovation project is intended to feature four main components:
Pending UAB Athletics reaching fundraising goals and additional UA System Board of Trustee approvals, the project is anticipated to break ground following the completion of UAB's Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies.
For more information, or to pledge your support to the Bartow Arena renovation project, call the Blazer Boosters office at (205) 996-9969.
"My family and I have been lifelong UAB Basketball fans and have many fond memories together in Bartow Arena over the years," O'Neal said. "We believe in the important role of college athletics and have invested in this transformative project because of the value this facility provides to the community and enhances the university as a whole."
Craft, a respected figure in Birmingham's business community and an active fundraiser for many civic organizations, is the chairman and CEO of O'Neal Industries. He is a long-time supporter of UAB Athletics as a season ticket holder and has played an integral role in the growth of UAB Athletics and serves on the Executive Committee of the UAB Athletics Foundation Board.
"None of us were surprised when Craft stepped forward to help," said Director of Athletics Mark Ingram. "He has been with us every step of the way, leading by example. He has supported many projects at UAB, including several within athletics. We are so thankful for his continued generosity and belief in what we're doing."
The $14.6 million Bartow Arena renovation project is intended to feature four main components:
- Entrance lobby expansion
- Club-level lounge and club-level seating for enhanced viewing experience
- Replacement of lower bowl retractable seating to elevate fan experience
- Concourse improvements including lighting and updated restrooms
Pending UAB Athletics reaching fundraising goals and additional UA System Board of Trustee approvals, the project is anticipated to break ground following the completion of UAB's Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies.
For more information, or to pledge your support to the Bartow Arena renovation project, call the Blazer Boosters office at (205) 996-9969.
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