University of Arizona AD Says School Has No Plans to Cut Athletics Programs

University of Arizona athletic director Dave Heeke says his school has no plans to cut any of its 23 sports programs, but the UA will pause all "major construction projects" following the completion of a new golf center a Tuscon Country Club. 

In a post on the UA website, Heeke did allude to an increase in ticket prices and renewed fundraising effort by offering donors new engagement opportunities. According to Tucson.com, UA President Robert C. Robbins told faculty last month to expect ticket prices for football and basketball games to increase by 25 percent.

During a November faculty meeting, Robbins mentioned the expectation of university-wide "draconian cuts," saying that "everything is on the table in terms of dealing with athletics." 

UA recently reported a $240 million "miscalculation" of projected cash on hand, and the athletic department has yet to repay a $55 million internal loan provided by central administration during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Robbins has referred to the school's current situation as a "financial crisis," which includes an ongoing budget deficit. Measures have been implemented, including a pay freeze, hiring pause and travel restrictions for staff. 

In his post on the school's website, Heeke stressed the search for a sustainable strategy moving forward. 

"As we add more chapters to the rich legacy of Arizona Athletics, we will do so with a continual focus on long-term sustainable models to support competitive excellence, doing so both efficiently and effectively," Heeke wrote. "The unwavering support of the entire Wildcat Family, which has powered our championship success for decades, remains a source of pride for us. We will continue to work together to ensure a bright future for our student-athletes, our University, and our community."