Chicago Construction News staff writer
Construction of the Home Court athletic center at the Obama Presidential Center has been completed, marking a major milestone as the South Side campus moves toward its planned opening in 2026.
The 60,000-square-foot Home Court building is designed to serve as a hub for sports, health and community programming. Inspired by former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama’s longtime advocacy for athletics and wellness, the facility is intended to empower and connect people through sports, learning and play.
The completed building includes an NBA regulation-size basketball court, two cross-court practice courts and several multipurpose rooms. The facility will host year-round leadership and career development programs for youth, according to the Obama Foundation. Phrases from Obama’s speeches are emblazoned on the basketball court floor.
Obama visited the Obama Presidential Center campus in December to review construction progress. During the visit, he spent several hours examining museum exhibits with curators and viewing large-scale public artworks for the first time. The former president also toured interior spaces, including the museum and athletic center, and reacted to views overlooking the South Side of Chicago.
The broader Obama Presidential Center campus is scheduled to open to the public in June 2026.
