Photo: Bass Pro Shops (Springfield Missouri Headquarters) preliminary site concept

University of Nebraska-Omaha athletic director, Trev Alberts,  is in preliminary discussions with Bass Pro Shops on an alternative use for the Baxter Arena site. As reported yesterday, Nebraska-Omaha Baxter Arena Slip Sliding Away, the 81 million dollar facility is sinking at a rapid rate – the result of a depleted Ogallala Aquifer and limestone bedrock which can no longer support the massive structure.

Alberts is keen on the Bass Pro partnership and sees this as an attractive alternative for the site. “The debris field from Baxter Arena creates an ideal habitat for bass and bluegill. Having a Super-Bass Pro Shop aligns perfectly with our students interests and values. What some may see as a rather desperate situation can now be turned into a win-win.”

Cabela’s, headquartered in Sidney, Nebraska and the state’s 15th largest employer, could not be reached for comment. Cabela’s and Bass Pro are the leading specialty retailers of hunting, fishing, camping, shooting, and related outdoor recreation merchandise.

“Over time, we will transition our Maverick hockey operations back to Rolston Arena and share ice time with the Lancers (USHL hockey). As for basketball, I haven’t even thought about them, yet.”