Query from Ashvegas reader: Will new UNCA arena still carry Kimmel name?

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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Here’s the question, from loyal reader Politics Watcher, following the recent news that UNCA plans to play the UNC Tar Heels in November 2011 to celebrate the opening of its new arena:

Not a comment on your posted photo, but a query to a reporter.

An item in the Raleigh News & Observer notes that UNCA will open its Kimmel Arena in November 2011.  The Asheville Citizen-Times reported in December 2009 that Mr.  Kimmel had filed for bankruptcy.  Mr.  Kimmel had”pledged  $2 million to UNCA in 2005, resulting in the arena receiving his name.  So questions are, Did UNCA get its money from Mr.  Kimmel, and if it has not done so, will the arena still be named for him?

Mike Gore, UNCA’s associate athletic director for external affairs, confirmed Friday that the Tar Heels will play at Kimmel Arena in November 2011. The arena will seat about 3,200 in a building that also will hold a health and wellness center.

Link to story here.