New practice venue looms

PULLMAN — Washington State University is getting a new indoor practice facility.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the facility that will replace “the bubble” is set for Saturday, Sept. 9. The date aligns with WSU’s home football game against the Wisconsin Badgers.

On Sept. 15, the week following the groundbreaking, the university regents will consider the final approval of the project.

A final budget, financial plan and design have yet to be released for the indoor practice center.

In May, officials estimated the project will cost $27.5 million, paid for by private donors.

All Cougar athletic programs will use the new facility, to be named the Taylor Sports Complex.

Although the groundbreaking ceremony will take place in early September, university spokesman Phil Weiler said crews will not start the project for at least another few months.

Several preliminary approvals for the project have already been granted by regents.

“The bubble” has been the university’s indoor practice center for more than 20 years.