KU, Oak View Group Expand Partnership with Year-Round Naismith Club

The University of Kansas and Oak View Group (OVG) have announced the next phase of their partnership with the introduction of The Naismith Club, a new members-only social club set to open inside Allen Fieldhouse in Summer 2026.

The year-round club is designed to extend the spirit of Kansas Athletics beyond game days, creating a shared gathering place for alumni, faculty, supporters, business leaders and members of the Lawrence community. Additional details regarding membership, programming and opening events will be announced in the coming months. Those interested in membership information can visit www.NaismithClubKU.com.

OVG, which serves as the football stadium and conference center operator for Gateway District and the food and beverage provider for all Kansas Athletics venues, will manage and operate The Naismith Club.

“As our partnership with OVG continues to evolve, this club allows us to create a unique connection point for our faculty, alumni, supporters and community,” Kansas Director of Athletics Travis Goff said in a press release. “The Naismith Club is a natural extension of what Allen Fieldhouse represents with its incredible tradition, pride and ability to bring people together.”

Located within the home of Kansas Basketball, the club will offer a premium hospitality environment for business meetings, social gatherings and private events. The space will include a newly renovated cocktail bar and lounge, an upscale dining room and an espresso bar loft featuring coworking areas and flexible event space. Kansas Athletics donors will continue to have access to the transformed space on game days.

The culinary program will emphasize local vendors and regional suppliers through a chef-driven, seasonal menu designed to balance elevated dining with an approachable atmosphere.

“The Naismith Club is intended to foster deeper fan engagement, strengthen alumni connection and keep Allen Fieldhouse active and relevant year-round,” Ashley Kraus, Senior Vice President of Social Clubs for Oak View Group, said. “It’s about honoring Kansas sports history while creating something meaningful for the University community today.”

Named for James Naismith, the inventor of basketball and the University’s first men’s basketball coach, the club will reflect his legacy through contemporary American design elements. The space will feature warm neutral finishes accented by KU’s crimson and blue color palette, champagne metal details and subtle basketball-inspired features. It will be located above the Booth Family Hall of Athletics and adjacent to the DeBruce Center, which houses the original rules of basketball.

The Naismith Club joins OVG’s growing portfolio of university social clubs nationwide, including Arizona Sands Club (University of Arizona), Baylor Club (Baylor University), Ken Garff University Club (University of Utah), The Carolina Club (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill), The Texas Tech Club (Texas Tech University), University Club of Virginia Tech and University Club Alabama.