It took a couple of years to find a site and some $50 million to renovate it, but a state of the art training center is coming along in Brooklyn so the Nets can finally move their entire operation to Brooklyn. NY1's Jeanine Ramirez got a sneak peek inside and she filed this report.
On the top floor of an industrial building is a multimillion-dollar makeover to house the Nets new basketball training complex, and it is complex—eliminating columns and the ceiling to make way for two glass enclosed basketball courts is just one of the big changes.
"This is really a transformational step in the Brooklyn Nets history. We're very excited. This is going to complete our move to Brooklyn," said President of Onexim Sports Irina Pavlova.
The Nets still practiced in New Jersey where the team was based until moving to the Barclays Center in 2012. However, once this project is done, the team's basketball operations will relocate here.
Last summer, there was a press conference announcing the new athletic complex which will be called the Hospital for Special Surgery Training Center. NY1 took a look at the progress, which requires some imagination along with some drawings.
"This is their world. Training room, players’ lounge, locker room, hydro, weight room, everything that they need," Nets Director of Operations Tony Brasile said.
One area will feature floor to ceiling windows and become the player's lounge with an outdoor terrace. With panoramic views, a rooftop lounge will be created.
"We're really committed to providing top class facilities for the Nets. I think the players are really going to enjoy being here and I think the future Nets players that are going to visit, this is going to entice them too," Brasile said.
The project is now topped out. The practice court ceiling reaches 34 feet up from the previous height of 15 feet. The design allows for lots of natural light and keeps an industrial feel with exposed duct work.
Nets officials say the training center is scheduled to open in February.