Clemson receives final state approval for arena project

CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) — Clemson has received final approval from the state of South Carolina for its $63.5 million revamping of its men’s and women’s basketball arena, Littlejohn Coliseum.

The school said the state’s Budget and Control approved the construction and issuance of bonds to finance the project. The renovation will be financed fully through Clemson’s athletic department and its athletic booster group, IPTAY.

Work on the building is expected to start after graduation on May 8 and completed in time for the 2016-17 basketball season.

Clemson’s men’s basketball team will play next in Greenville at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. The facility is about 30 miles away from campus.

The women’s team will play at the school’s Jervey Gymnasium.