History
For 50 years, the Charles E. Smith Center has been at the heart of unforgettable moments at GW. From championship wins and milestone games to visits from world leaders and cultural icons, the Smith Center has hosted it all. Explore the timeline, photos, and stories that celebrate the rich history and lasting impact of this iconic venue.
1973
The Start of a New Era
GW celebrates the beginning of the construction of the Charles E. Smith Center for Physical Education and Athletics.
1975
Dedicating a Home for Hoops and More
The Charles E. Smith Center is dedicated on December 6, 1975. Legendary GW basketball player and Boston Celtics Coach and future Hall of Famer and President, Red Auerbach, is in attendance.
1976
Commencement's New Home
The Monday Report, published by the Office of Public Relations, makes mention that the first Commencement to be held in the new Smith Center will be held on Monday, February 16.
1977
All-Star Basketball Comes to DC
Smith Center is selected as the site of the first national women’s collegiate all-star basketball game.
The Venue Turns Two
Smith Center celebrates its second birthday. Athletics Director Robert K. Faris estimates that 75% of the university’s 7,000 full-time students make use of the facility.
1978
First Concert at Smith Center
The Smith Center hosted its first concert, guitarist and singer Bonnie Raitt, before a sold out crowd of 5,000.
1985
Bob Hope Takes the Stage
Bob Hope appears at the Smith Center for an evening of comedy to raise money for the men’s and women’s athletics teams, leading up to the 10th anniversary celebration.
1985
Smith Center Turns 10
The Charles E. Smith Center celebrates its 10th anniversary.
1990
Carlin Makes It Two Georges at George Washington
The Department of Athletics and Recreation sponsors a George Carlin concert during a basketball game.
1995
Bill Clinton
On Feb. 4, 1995, President Bill Clinton was part of a raucous crowd that spurred the Buff and Blue to a 78-75 victory over top-ranked UMass.
1997
March Madness
With a 6-0 all-time record in NCAA Tournament games at the Smith Center, the last two wins came in 1997 when GW Women’s Basketball beat Northwestern and Tulane en route to an Elite Eight appearance that season.
2009
The First Fan Part II
President Barack Obama and the first family were in attendance at the men’s basketball game on November 30, 2009 against Oregon State.
2012
Paving the Way to Gold in Foggy Bottom
The USA Men’s National Basketball team stopped at the Smith Center to practice before heading to the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
2014
Tennis Legends Thrill Sold-Out Crowds
From 2014 to 2018, the Smith Center was home to the Washington Kastles, one of eight tennis franchises that competed in WorldTeam Tennis. Venus Williams was a member of the Kastles.
2016
National Audience Enjoys Monumental Win
GW men’s basketball defeated #6 ranked Virginia in a game nationally-televised on ESPN.
2018
Sometimes We "Fell" Short
The picture speaks for itself.
2019
A Brighter Day
The arena underwent a makeover with new seating, brighter colors, increased concessions space, enhanced signage and additional branding.
2020
Taking Care of Our Community
COVID testing is conducted by Medical Faculty Associates.
2025
50th Anniversary
As the Smith Center celebrates 50 years, we look forward to creating even more monumental memories in the years to come.
