The United Center is jointly owned by the Reinsdorf and Wirtz families, who are also the owners of the professional sports teams that call the arena home.
Understanding the Ownership Structure
The ownership of the United Center is a collaborative venture between two prominent families in Chicago's sports landscape:
- The Reinsdorf Family: This family's involvement stems from their ownership of the Chicago Bulls (NBA).
- The Wirtz Family: Their connection comes from their ownership of the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL).
Both families collectively own the arena and have also acquired significant portions of the surrounding land, further solidifying their investment in the area. This unique ownership model ensures a vested interest in the success and maintenance of the facility, benefiting both their respective teams and the broader community.
Key Ownership Details
Owner | Primary Connection | Additional Interests |
---|---|---|
Reinsdorf Family | Chicago Bulls (NBA) | Owns much of the surrounding land |
Wirtz Family | Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) | Owns much of the surrounding land |
The United Center: A Hub for Entertainment
Beyond its ownership, the United Center stands as a premier venue for a diverse range of events. Since its inception, it has served as a central point for entertainment in Chicago.
- Inaugural Event: The very first major event held at the arena was WWF SummerSlam, showcasing its immediate role as a large-scale entertainment destination.
- Event Variety: Annually, the United Center plays host to hundreds of sporting events—including regular seasons, playoffs, and tournaments for its resident teams—and numerous concerts, drawing millions of visitors each year.
This bustling activity highlights the significance of the United Center as a vital asset to Chicago's cultural and economic landscape, directly influenced by the long-standing commitment of the Reinsdorf and Wirtz families.