Toyota Center

Image:Toyota Center inside.jpg

File:Toyota Center Game 7 2018 playoffs.jpg in Game 7 of the 2018 NBA Western Conference Finals between the Houston Rockets and the Golden State Warriors.]]

In May 1995, several Texas sports teams, including the Houston Rockets, proposed legislation that would dedicate state tax revenue to build new arenas.{{cite news |title=Backers Take another Run at Stadium|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1271363|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629171514/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1271363|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 29, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=May 2, 1995|access-date=March 13, 2009}} Although the bill failed in the Texas House of Representatives,{{cite news |title=Senate Passes Sports Subsidy|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1271482|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629171520/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1271482|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 29, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=May 3, 1995|access-date=March 13, 2009}}{{cite news |title=Lanier Turns Down Oilers' Latest Stadium Demand|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1289360|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013015021/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1289360|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=August 4, 1995|access-date=March 21, 2009}} Rockets owner Leslie Alexander announced he would continue to study the possibility of constructing a new arena in downtown Houston,{{cite news |title=Summary|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1277125|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629171546/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1277125|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 29, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=May 30, 1995|access-date=March 13, 2009}} saying the 20-year-old Summit arena was too outdated to be profitable.{{cite news |title=Summit Sweetens the Pot|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1336351|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153140/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1336351|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=April 17, 1996|access-date=March 13, 2009}} Although the Summit's management said they could renovate the building for a small part of the cost of a new arena,{{cite news |title=Summit to be Scene of Peace Talks|first=Eddie|last=Sefko|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1297284|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708152837/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1297284|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=September 17, 1995|access-date=March 13, 2009}} the Rockets began talks with the city of Houston on a possible location for an arena,{{cite news |title=Rockets, Lanier Hold Arena Talks|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1314434|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708152850/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1995_1314434|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=December 22, 1995|access-date=March 13, 2009}} They also negotiated with Houston Aeros and Summit owner, Chuck Watson, to release them from their contract with the Summit, which ran until 2003.{{cite news |title=Talks on Arena for Basketball Dribble to Stop|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1356646|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153159/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1356646|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 31, 1996|access-date=March 14, 2009}}

As the negotiations continued into 1996, a panel appointed by Houston mayor Bob Lanier reported that building a new arena was "essential to keep pro sports in Houston".{{cite news |title=New Stadium Put up to Bat|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1342383|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153212/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1342383|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=May 18, 1996|access-date=March 14, 2009}} After Watson rejected a contract buyout proposal of $30 million,{{cite news |title='Buyout' Isn't What It's Cracked Up to Be|first=Ed|last=Fowler|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1378169|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153217/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1378169|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=November 15, 1996|access-date=March 14, 2009}} the Rockets filed a legal challenge against their lease,{{cite news |title=Rockets Challenge Their Lease|first1=George|last1=Flynn|first2=Julie|last2=Mason|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1384148|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153334/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1384148|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=December 17, 1996|access-date=March 14, 2009}} stating the "need to be able to buy out" of the lease.{{cite news |title='Let Our Rockets Go'|first1=John|last1=Williams|first2=Dale|last2=Robertson|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1377574|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153327/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1996_1377574|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=November 12, 1996|access-date=March 14, 2009}} However, the city of Houston filed a counterclaim to force the Rockets to stay at the Summit, saying that if the Rockets did not honor their contract, then they might "have no incentive to honor any new agreement with the city of Houston to play in a new downtown sports arena".{{cite news |title=City Sues Over Lease at Summit|first1=John|last1=Williams|first2=Julie|last2=Mason|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1393390|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153342/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1393390|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=February 6, 1997|access-date=March 14, 2009}} The validity of the lease was eventually upheld,{{cite news |title=Rockets Agree to Stay but Lose Lawsuit Over Summit Lease |first1=George |last1=Flynn |first2=Julie |last2=Mason |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1397537 |newspaper=Houston Chronicle |date=February 28, 1997 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153352/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1397537 |archive-date=July 8, 2011 |access-date=October 22, 2013}} and in April 1997, Lanier announced that the Rockets and Watson would have to agree to share control of the new arena equally, or lose access to it altogether.{{cite news |title=Lanier Has Arena Plans for Rockets, Aeros|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1404509|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153404/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1404509|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=April 4, 1997|access-date=March 14, 2009}} After both parties agreed to the terms,{{cite news |title=Rockets Owner Agrees to Deal with City, Aeros|first1=John|last1=Williams|first2=T. J. |last2=Milling|first3=Neil|last3=Hohlfeld|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1407266|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153409/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1407266|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=April 18, 1997|access-date=March 14, 2009}} a bill that authorized increased taxes to pay for a new arena was signed into law in July, by then-Governor George W. Bush.{{cite news |title=Bush Signs Stadium Bill, Clearing Last Austin Hurdle|first=T. J.|last=Milling|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1416562|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153414/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1416562|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 3, 1997|access-date=March 14, 2009}}

However, after the NHL decided not to consider Houston as a location for an expansion team because of the indecision over the new arena, Lanier said that he would not have a referendum in November.{{cite news |title=NHL Snub Halts Vote on Arena|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1419461|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153419/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1997_1419461|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 18, 1997|access-date=March 14, 2009}} The Rockets began an appeal in January 1998 against the court order to stay at the Summit,{{cite news |title=Rockets Appeal Court Ruling on Lease|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1998_3026314|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153423/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1998_3026314|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=January 8, 1998|access-date=March 14, 2009}} but then dropped it in May, because they felt that a new arena would be ready by the time they finished their lease.{{cite news |title=Rockets Owner to Drop Lawsuit Against Arena|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1998_3056936|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708153430/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1998_3056936|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=May 22, 1998|access-date=March 14, 2009}} In January 1999, recently elected mayor Lee Brown guaranteed a referendum on the issue before the end of the year.{{cite news |title=Mayor Plans Arena Vote for This Year|first1=John|last1=Williams|first2=Matt|last2=Schwartz|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3112006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214156/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3112006|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=January 20, 1999|access-date=March 16, 2009}} After several months negotiating with the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, the Rockets finalized a deal to pay half of the constructions costs, and a referendum was set for November 2.{{cite news |title=Arena Deal Sets November Referendum|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3161655|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214200/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3161655|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=September 1, 1999|access-date=March 16, 2009}} The deal was approved by Brown and the Houston City Council,{{cite news |title=Council Gives Symbolic Nod to Arena Deal|first=Matt|last=Schwartz|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3168037|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214742/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3168037|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=September 30, 1999|access-date=March 16, 2009}} but Watson started an opposition group against the referendum,{{cite news |title=Aeros Owner Vows Funds to Defeat Downtown Arena|first=John|last=Williams|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3171302|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214748/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3171302|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=October 15, 1999|access-date=March 16, 2009}} saying the arena was "not in Houston's interest".{{cite news |title=Watson Presents Case for Voting Down Referendum|first=Mickey|last=Herskowitz|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3175049|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214757/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3175049|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=October 31, 1999|access-date=March 16, 2009}} On November 3, the results of the referendum were announced, and the arena proposal was rejected by 54% of voters.{{cite news |title=Port Bonds Win; Arena Dunked|first1=John|last1=Williams|first2=Tony|last2=Freemantle|first3=Janette|last3=Rodrigues|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3175254|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013015929/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=1999_3175254|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=November 3, 1999|access-date=March 16, 2009}} Alexander said "we never thought we would lose" and that they were "devastated by the loss".

After the vote, NBA commissioner David Stern said "if there's not a new building...I think it's certain that the team will be relocated."{{cite news |title=Stern Ultimatum Hits Close to Home|first=Fran|last=Blinebury|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3195424|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214804/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3195424|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=February 13, 2000|access-date=March 16, 2009}} The Houston Sports Authority had not planned to meet with the Rockets until after the {{nbay|1999}} NBA season ended, but after the Rockets began to talk to other cities about relocation, they resumed talks in February 2000.{{cite news |title=Rockets Meeting a 'Good Start'|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3195725|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214812/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3195725|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=February 16, 2000|access-date=March 16, 2009}} Although the Rockets continued to negotiate with Louisville, Kentucky,{{cite news |url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3214398|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214904/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3214398|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|title=Louisville Woos Rockets|last=Berger|first=Eric|date=May 13, 2000|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|access-date=March 19, 2009}} a funding plan for the arena in Houston was released in June.{{cite news |title=Plan to Pay for Arena Revealed|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3218586|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214913/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3218586|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=June 1, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}} A final agreement was proposed on July 6,{{cite news |title=City Officials Say New Deal for Arena Affordable|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3225958|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012214919/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3225958|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 12, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 6, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}} and both the Rockets and mayor Brown agreed to the terms.{{cite news |title=Rockets OK Arena Terms|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3227449|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013014620/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3227449|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 13, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}}{{cite news |title=Negotiators Pack Up, Declare Victory on Sports Arena Deal|first1=Eric|last1=Berger|first2=Richard|last2=Dean|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3230232|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013014624/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3230232|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 26, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}} After the city council approved the deal,{{cite news |title=City Agrees to Rockets Arena Deal|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3242055|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013014642/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3242055|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=September 14, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}} the proposal was placed on the November referendum ballot.{{cite news |title=Round 2: Arena Placed on Ballot|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3239690|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013014632/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3239690|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=September 2, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}} Leading up to the vote, the Rockets stressed that there would be "no new taxes of any kind",{{cite news |title=Focus of Pro-Arena Ads: No New Taxes|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3247856|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013014650/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3247856|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=October 6, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}} although opponents said the new arena would raise energy consumption, and also contended that the public would pay for too much of the costs of the arena.{{cite news |title=Coalition Opposes Arena Plans|first=Deborah|last=Tedford|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3251734|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013014729/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3251734|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=October 22, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}} Contributions for the campaign for the arena included donations of US$400,000 from Reliant Energy, and a total of $590,000 in loans and contributions from Enron and Ken Lay,{{cite news |title=Persistence Pays Off|first=Lori|last=Rodriguez|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3272079|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013015936/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3272079|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=January 7, 2001|access-date=March 26, 2009}} who the Rockets said was a "tireless" force in the campaign.{{cite news |title=Enron Chief's Departure Creates Huge Civic Void|first=Rachel|last=Graves|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2002_3512118|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013015941/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2002_3512118|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=January 25, 2002|access-date=March 26, 2009}} On November 8, the arena was approved by 66% of voters.{{cite news |title=Margin of Victory for Arena Vote Called 'Bizarre'|first=Eric|last=Berger|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3256380|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013014738/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2000_3256380|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=November 9, 2000|access-date=March 19, 2009}}

File:Houston Toyota Center -.jpg

File:Toyota Center satellite view.png

File:ToyotaCenterTundraGarage.JPG

According to the agreement signed, the city of Houston bought the land for the arena and an adjoining parking garage,{{cite news |title=Rockets Told to Be Judicious About Arena Changes|first=Steve|last=Brewer|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3294318|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020008/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3294318|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=March 5, 2001|access-date=March 26, 2009}} which was near the George R. Brown Convention Center,{{cite news |title=Sports Authority Starts to Condemn Arena Lots|first=Rachel|last=Graves|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3276609|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013015958/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3276609|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=January 26, 2001|access-date=March 26, 2009}} and paid for it by selling bonds and borrowing $30 million.{{cite news |title=Sports Authority Sets Up Interim Financing for Arena|first=Steve|last=Brewer|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3343747|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020110/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3343747|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=October 25, 2001|access-date=March 28, 2009}}{{cite news |title=Loan Plan for Garage Canceled|first=Steve|last=Brewer|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2002_3515389|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020305/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2002_3515389|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=February 6, 2002|access-date=March 28, 2009}} Morris Architects, designed the {{convert|750000|sqft|m2|adj=on}} building, and Hunt Construction was contracted to build the arena.{{cite news |title=Don't Like Stairs? Come on Down! New Arena to Be Below Street Level|first=Audrey|last=Warren|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3321526|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020017/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3321526|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 24, 2001|access-date=March 26, 2009}} A building formerly owned by Houston Lighting and Power Company was demolished to make way for the arena, and two streets were closed for the duration of the construction. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on July 31, 2001,{{cite news |title=New Arena Takes Off|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3323430|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020312/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2001_3323430|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=August 1, 2001|access-date=March 28, 2009}} and construction continued for 26 months.

At the request of Alexander, the arena was built {{convert|32|ft|m}} below street level, so fans would not have to walk up stairs to reach their seats. To sink the arena, $12 million was spent to excavate {{convert|31500|yd3}} of dirt over four months,{{cite news |title=Newest Addition to East Side Has City Officials Feeling Rejuvenated|first=Megan|last=Manfull|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3696210|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020645/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3696210|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=October 5, 2003|access-date=March 30, 2009}} which was the largest excavation in Houston history.{{cite news |title=From the Ground Up, Alexander Keeps Fans' Needs in Mind|first=John P.|last=Lopez|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3696194|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020729/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3696194|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=September 2, 2003|access-date=March 30, 2009}} Concrete was poured for the foundation throughout the summer of 2002, and structural work began in October. The roof was set on in December, as work continued inside, with a peak workforce of 650. In September 2003, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark the official opening of the arena. The total cost of construction was $235 million, with the city paying $182 million, and the Rockets adding $43 million for additions and enhancements.{{cite news |title=Rockets' Big Move a Winner|first=John P.|last=Lopez|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3686610|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020755/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3686610|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=September 2, 2003|access-date=March 30, 2009}}

The arena can seat 18,104 for a basketball game, 17,800 for ice hockey games, and 19,300 for concerts. The prices for courtside seats to a Rockets game in the new arena were raised by as much as 50% compared to prices in the team's old home, while upper-deck seat prices were lowered.{{cite news |title=Seeing Rockets Will Cost More, Less in New Arena|first=Megan|last=Manfull|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3662357|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020335/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3662357|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=June 11, 2003|access-date=March 28, 2009}}

It has 103 luxury suites and 2,900 club seats (Sections 105–109, Frost Bank West Club; Sections 118–122, Frost Bank East Club). The Rockets East & West Clubs feature upscale concessions, extra wide seats, full private bar featuring premium wine and beverage selections and concierge service.{{cite web |title=Toyota Center Club Seating|url=http://www.houstontoyotacenter.com/premium-sales/houston-rockets-club}} The adjacent 2,500-space Toyota Tundra garage is connected to the arena by a private skybridge that can be accessed by Suite, Court-side and Club Seat holders.{{cite web |title=Houston Toyota Center: About Us|url=http://www.houstontoyotacenter.com/arena-info/a-to-z-guide}}

Additionally, the floor level features three separate private club lounges for access from court-side seat holders and floor seat concert goers. Lexus Lounge and Golden Nugget Club are on the west side of the floor level and the Bogarts Platinum Lounge is located on the east side of the floor level.{{cite web |title=Houston Toyota Center: A to Z Guide|url=http://www.houstontoyotacenter.com/arena-info/a-to-z-guide}} All feature upscale amenities including multiple flat screen televisions, private bar, restrooms, and plush seating. The Lexus Lounge has its own pool tables and all three court-side lounges feature numerous private court-side suites.{{cite web |title=Houston Toyota Center: Concert Club|url=http://www.houstontoyotacenter.com/events/concert-club}}

Toyota Center also features the Sterling Vineyards Red & White Wine Bistro, located on the lower suites level on the south side of the arena.{{cite web |title=Houston Toyota Center: Red & White Wine Bistro|url=http://www.houstontoyotacenter.com/premium-sales/red-white-wine-bistro}} The restaurant features a huge dining room, private bar, two twin 1,500 bottle wine towers and views of the arena floor.

Levy Restaurants manages concession services at the arena, and offers fast food on the main concourses, while also catering a VIP restaurant for Suite and Club Seat holders.{{cite news |title=Levy to Manage Food at New Downtown Arena|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3648942|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013020328/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3648942|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=April 27, 2003|access-date=March 28, 2009}} Alexander personally chose colors for the restaurant to help customers feel "warm and comfortable", and Rockets president George Postolos said that the Rockets looked "for a relationship with the people that attend events in our venue". Originally, a {{convert|40|ft|m}} by {{convert|32|ft|m}} centerhung video system from Daktronics, which has four main replay screens and eight other full-color displays, hung from the ceiling of the arena, and had the highest-resolution display of any North American sports facility. In 2012, Toyota Center installed a larger, 4 panel scoreboard, similar to the one installed at AT&T Stadium, measuring {{convert|58|ft|m}} by {{convert|25|ft|m}} on the sidelines, and {{convert|25|ft|m}} by {{convert|25|ft|m}} on the ends, making it the largest such video board in an indoor arena. This larger scoreboard was installed by Panasonic and made its debut during the Houston Rockets 2012–13 season opener. The arena has two additional displays located at each end of the court, and a "state-of-the-art" audio system.{{cite web|title=Toyota Center Multi-Sided Centerhung Display |url=http://www.ptc.com/appserver/wcms/ptcawards/entry.jsp?&im_dbkey=20226&icg_dbkey=242 |publisher=PTC, Inc. |access-date=January 31, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090621112709/http://www.ptc.com/appserver/wcms/ptcawards/entry.jsp |archive-date=June 21, 2009 }}{{cite web |title=Toyota Center New Scoreboard|date=September 4, 2012 |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/houston-rockets-giant-video-scoreboard-largest-indoor-arena-162735432--nba.html|access-date=February 6, 2013}}

Another amenity new to Toyota Center in the 2012–2013 season is Wi-Fi. Designed by SignalShare and implemented by OfficeConnect.net, the Wi-Fi network is deployed throughout the arena and allows high-speed internet access during events. Its implementation was timed to be ready for the NBA All-Star Game.{{cite web |title=Toyota Center to install huge high-definition video screens|date=September 3, 2012|url=http://blog.chron.com/ultimaterockets/2012/09/toyota-center-to-install-huge-high-definition-video-screens/|access-date=April 10, 2013}}{{cite web |title=2013 NBA All Star Game Wi-Fi Powered by SignalShare|url=http://www.signalshare.com/blog/2013-nba-all-star-game-wi-fi-powered-by-signalshare/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130601170617/http://www.signalshare.com/blog/2013-nba-all-star-game-wi-fi-powered-by-signalshare/|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 1, 2013|access-date=April 10, 2013}}

In July 2003, the arena was named Toyota Center. The logo of the company was placed on the roof of the building, as well in other prominent places inside the arena, and the company was given "a dominant presence" in commercials shown during broadcasts of games played in the arena.{{cite news |title=Arena's Sticker Price for Toyota: $100 Million|first=Jonathan|last=Feigen|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3674393|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708152856/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3674393|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 8, 2011|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=July 25, 2003|access-date=March 13, 2009}} Toyota USA has satellite offices in Houston.

The seating capacity for basketball games has been as follows:[https://www.nba.com/resources/static/team/v2/rockets/1819MediaGuide.pdf 2018–2019 Houston Rockets Media Guide]

The arena's first event was a Fleetwood Mac concert on October 6, 2003, and the first Rockets game at Toyota Center was against the Denver Nuggets on October 30.{{cite news |title=Toyota Center to Rev Up With Diverse Acts, Sports|first=Clifford|last=Pugh|url=http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3679170|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013021038/http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=2003_3679170|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 13, 2012|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=August 11, 2003|access-date=April 1, 2009}}

Many concerts have also taken place in Toyota Center, like Beyoncé, Prince, Tool, Duran Duran on their Astronaut tour, Janet Jackson, Madonna, Tina Turner, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Gloria Estefan, Shakira, Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Bruno Mars, Christina Aguilera, P!nk, Andrea Bocelli, Muse, High School Musical The Concert, Aerosmith, Guns N' Roses, Coldplay, RBD, Laura Pausini, Alanis Morissette, Matchbox Twenty, Fiona Apple, Nickelback, Depeche Mode, Bon Jovi, Enrique Iglesias, Katy Perry, Drake, Travis Scott, Cher, Britney Spears, Kanye West and Jay-Z, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, The Rolling Stones, One Direction, Ariana Grande, Olivia Rodrigo, Carrie Underwood, Rammstein, Adele, Lana Del Rey, Melanie Martinez, Twenty One Pilots, Sabrina Carpenter, Blackpink, G-Dragon, Panic! At The Disco, Harry Styles, Enhypen, Garth Brooks with Trisha Yearwood, and many more.

On July 23, 2016, Hillsong UNITED performed in the arena, the performance was recorded and released as Empires.

In 2007, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2022, it played host to a UFC event.{{cite news|url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-192-Headed-to-Houston-Fight-Night-Cards-Announced-for-Nashville-San-Diego-83337|title=UFC 192 headed to Houston|publisher=sherdog.com|first=Tristen|last=Critchfield|date=March 15, 2015|access-date=March 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150316235651/https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-192-Headed-to-Houston-Fight-Night-Cards-Announced-for-Nashville-San-Diego-83337|archive-date=March 16, 2015|url-status=live}}

On August 21, 2010, it played host to Strikeforce: Houston.{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/news/20384/strikeforce-houston-draws-attendance-of-8635-coker-credits-k-j-noons.mma|title="Strikeforce: Houston" draws attendance of 8,635; CEO credits K.J. Noons|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=August 22, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100824051628/https://mmajunkie.com/news/20384/strikeforce-houston-draws-attendance-of-8635-coker-credits-k-j-noons.mma|archive-date=August 24, 2010}}

On February 19, 2016, it played host to Bellator MMA event Bellator 149: Shamrock vs. Gracie III. The event featured a double main event featuring heavyweights Kimbo Slice vs. Dada 5000, and light heavyweights Ken Shamrock vs. Royce Gracie. Bellator 149 had a live attendance record of 14,209 and a near $1.4 million gate at Toyota Center, thus making Bellator 149 the largest attended show in Bellator MMA history.

The arena has hosted a number of WWE events including No Mercy in 2005, Vengeance: Night of Champions, the 2009 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, two editions of TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs (2010 and 2013), Night of Champions 2015, NXT TakeOver: WarGames 2017, Survivor Series 2017, Elimination Chamber 2019, as well as various episodes of Raw and SmackDown. WWE also held their first live show in front of fans, for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the July 16, 2021, episode of SmackDown at Toyota Center.{{cite web|last=Otterson|first=Joe|title=WWE to Return to Live Touring in July|url=https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/wwe-live-tour-dates-2021-1234978565/|work=Variety|access-date=May 23, 2021|date=May 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210521192415/https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/wwe-live-tour-dates-2021-1234978565/|archive-date=May 21, 2021|url-status=live}} On December 30, 2024, the arena hosted the final episode of Raw on the USA Network.{{cite web|last=Brookhouse|first=Brent|title=WWE Raw results, live recap, grades: CM Punk and Seth Rollins end the USA Network era with an intense promo|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-live-recap-grades-cm-punk-and-seth-rollins-end-the-usa-network-era-with-an-intense-promo/live/|date=December 30, 2024|work=CBSSports|access-date=February 8, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250209013628/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-live-recap-grades-cm-punk-and-seth-rollins-end-the-usa-network-era-with-an-intense-promo/live/|archive-date=February 9, 2025|url-status=live}}

The arena hosted the 9th Annual Latin Grammy Awards on November 13, 2008.

Passion Conferences has been held in Toyota Center since 2014. The conference draws around 20,000 people with multiple other gatherings held in Atlanta.

On September 30, 2016, the arena hosted the Kellogg's Tour of Gymnastics Champions.{{cite web|title=2016 Kellogg's Tour of Gymnastics Champions takes center stage beginning Sept. 15|url=https://usagym.org/pages/post.html?PostID=19213|publisher=usagym.org|access-date=March 26, 2019|archive-date=March 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327085825/https://usagym.org/pages/post.html?PostID=19213|url-status=dead}}

Gabriel Iglesias' Netflix special "One Show Fits All" was filmed in Toyota Center in 2019.

The arena will be the site of the 2028 Republican National Convention.{{Cite web |last=Choi |first=Matthew |date=August 25, 2023|title=Houston will host 2028 Republican National Convention |url=https://www.texastribune.org/2023/08/25/houston-republican-national-convention-2028/ |access-date=July 20, 2024|website=The Texas Tribune}}

In its first year, the total attendance for events at the arena exceeded 1.5 million.{{Citation needed|date=November 2009}} The current attendance for a concert held at the arena was set on November 20, 2008, when Metallica played to a sold-out crowd of 17,962 during the Death Magnetic tour. The record for a basketball game is 18,583, set on March 26, 2010, when the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Rockets 109–101.{{cite news |title=Lakers Cruise to Win, Hand Rockets Fourth Straight Loss|first=Jonathan|last=Feigen|url=http://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/Lakers-cruise-to-win-hand-Rockets-fourth-1709568.php|newspaper=Houston Chronicle|date=March 27, 2010|access-date=May 14, 2012}}

The arena was the winner of the Allen Award for Civic Enhancement by Central Houston, the "Rookie of the Year" award by the Harlem Globetrotters, and a finalist for Pollstar Magazine's "Best New Concert Venue" award.

{{Portal|Texas}}

• List of sports venues with the name Toyota
• List of basketball arenas

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons category}}

• [http://www.toyotacenter.com/ Toyota Center Homepage]

{{s-start-collapsible|header={{s-sta|et}}}}

{{Succession box

| title = Home of the
Houston Rockets

| years = 2003 – present

| before = Compaq Center

| after = current

}}

{{Succession box

| title = Home of the
Houston Aeros

| years = 2003–2013

| before = Compaq Center

| after = Wells Fargo Arena
(as Iowa Wild)

}}

{{Succession box

| title = Home of the
Houston Comets

| years = 2003–2007

| before = Compaq Center

| after = Reliant Arena

}}

{{Succession box

| title = Host of the
NBA All-Star Game

| years = 2006
2013

| before = Pepsi Center
Amway Center

| after = Thomas & Mack Center
New Orleans Arena

}}

{{s-end}}

{{Downtown Houston}}

{{Latin Grammy Award venues}}

{{NBA Arenas}}

{{Houston Rockets}}

{{Houston Comets}}

{{Houston Aeros}}

{{Music venues of Texas}}

{{American Athletic Conference basketball venue navbox}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:Basketball venues in Houston

Category:Basketball venues in Texas

Category:Gymnastics venues in Texas

Category:Houston Aeros (1994–2013)

Category:Houston Comets

Category:Houston Rockets

Category:Ice hockey venues in the United States

Category:Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design basic silver certified buildings

Category:Mixed martial arts venues in Texas

Category:NBA venues

Category:Wrestling venues in Houston

Category:Sports venues completed in 2003

Category:Music venues in Houston

Category:Toyota

Category:Buildings and structures in Houston

Category:Indoor arenas in Texas

Category:Sports venues in Houston

Category:Populous (company) buildings

Category:2003 establishments in Texas

Category:Downtown Houston

Category:Women's National Basketball Association venues

Category:Ice hockey venues in Texas