Initially known as "Coliseo de Ponce" from its inauguration in 1972 until the 1990s,[6] it was baptized under the name Auditorio Juan Pachín Vicéns, to honor the MVP basketball player.

[11] The auditorium is the official venue of the local basketball team, the Leones de Ponce, and also hosts musical concerts, circuses, conventions, and organization meetings.

In addition to serving as an important sports venue, several non-sports historical events have taken place there.

The auditorium was the site of the wake ceremony for Juan "Pachín" Vicéns who died on 18 February 2007.

The wake ceremony for Ponce mayor Rafael Cordero Santiago who died on 17 January 2004 was also held there as well.