The arena, named for Washington, D.C.–based philanthropists, Howard and Sondra Bender, is also the primary campus venue for concerts, commencement, and speakers, seating up to 6,000.

The arena's main court is named for the late former American University athletic director and coach Stafford H. "Pop" Cassell, another AU alum.

Bender Arena's current main scoreboard, installed prior to the 2001–02 season, includes a 7-by-9-foot (2.1 by 2.7 m) animation and video display and advertising signage for corporate sponsors.

AU students are able to go to class, have dinner, attend a game or concert and stop by the Tavern or The Eagles Nest convenience store for refreshments without ever leaving the confines of the building.

Bender hosted the 2002, 2008, and 2009 Patriot League men's basketball tournament final and 2012 National Wrestling Coaches Association All-Star Classic.