USIU Officials Negotiating to Play Basketball at Golden Hall

SAN DIEGO — The United States International University men’s basketball team, without an arena since the 1970s, may get a home next season.

University officials are working on a deal that would allow the Gulls to play at least 15 games at Golden Hall during the 1986-87 season.

“We’re still putting the pieces together,” said Al Palmiotto, USIU athletic director. “But we’re very close to working out a contract. I’m very optimistic and hope that everything will be finalized within two weeks.”

Golden Hall, which is in downtown San Diego and used primarily for concerts and theater events, was home for the San Diego Conquistadors, the now-defunct American Basketball Assn. team.

Golden Hall seats 1,600 for basketball, but capacity can be expanded to 3,000.

USIU has not had a home gym since the school moved from its Point Loma campus (now occupied by Point Loma Nazarene) to Scripps Ranch. In recent seasons, the Gulls have played at local high schools, community colleges and universities.

USIU’s on-campus arena is not expected to be finished before the 1987-88 season.

“I’m very excited about the prospect of playing at Golden Hall,” USIU Coach Gary Zarecky said. “Besides being an excellent facility in which to play, it will be a great recruiting tool.”