Al Rhodes Kingsmen Court is where Penn High School basketball, student learning and school tradition come together. Located inside the Main Arena in Mishawaka, Indiana, the court serves as the home floor for Kingsmen boys and girls basketball and supports volleyball, wrestling, Poms and physical education activities.
Named for Penn graduate and Hall of Fame basketball coach Al Rhodes, the court connects generations of Kingsmen while serving today’s students.
Home Court for Penn Basketball
For student-athletes, Al Rhodes Kingsmen Court is a place to build skills, practice with teammates and compete in front of the Penn community. The hardwood playing surface provides the setting for boys and girls basketball, from daily preparation to the excitement of game night.
The surrounding Main Arena seats 3,300 spectators and has hosted IHSAA sectional and regional events, giving students opportunities to experience postseason competition on their home floor.
An Everyday Classroom for Physical Education
The court’s role extends beyond competitive athletics. Penn Wellness classes use the space for physical education instruction, group activities and class events.
Students who do not participate in school sports also benefit from access to the court, developing movement skills, practicing teamwork and taking part in physical activity throughout the school year. For families considering Penn High School, it is an example of how athletic facilities also support daily learning.
A Setting for School Spirit and Student Recognition
A large video board suspended above Al Rhodes Kingsmen Court combines scoreboard functions with photos and videos. During games and school events, it brings student accomplishments to the big screen and helps the Penn community celebrate together.
The court also accommodates volleyball, wrestling and Poms activities, making it a shared space for students across several programs.
Part of Penn’s Indoor Athletic Facilities
Al Rhodes Kingsmen Court is located in Penn’s Main Arena, one of the school’s two gymnasiums. Together, the Main Arena and Auxiliary Gym provide room for classes, practices and events to take place simultaneously.
For families exploring schools in Mishawaka, Granger and the South Bend area, these facilities support a range of opportunities for both athletes and non-athletes.
The Legacy Behind the Name
Coach Al Rhodes played basketball at Penn from 1966 to 1970 before beginning a coaching career that eventually brought him back to lead the Kingsmen.
During 15 seasons as Penn’s boys basketball head coach, Rhodes compiled a 239-128 record. His final season in 2023 ended with a 28-2 record and a state Final Four appearance.
Dr. Jerry and Donna Thacker donated $10,000 through the P-H-M Education Foundation’s naming rights campaign to name the court in his honor, recognizing his lasting contributions to Penn basketball and its students.
Read how a naming rights donation honored Coach Al Rhodes and established Al Rhodes Kingsmen Court.
Attend a Game at Al Rhodes Kingsmen Court
Visitors can access the court through the Main Arena entrance at Door D, located at the front of Penn High School off Bittersweet Road. Concessions and public restrooms are available within the Arena complex.
View Penn High School parking information.
Penn student-athletes also have access to the Culver’s Athletic Performance Center and the Dr. Jerry and Donna Thacker Fieldhouse.