It was built in 1980 and was home to the Longwood University Lancers men's and women's basketball teams until 2023.

Prior to the debate, the building underwent a modest renovation to the front entrance and lobby in preparation.

[7] On April 10, 2019, Longwood announced a $15 million donation to begin construction of a new convocation and events center to replace Willett Hall as the venue for Lancer basketball.

The arena will be named the Joan Perry Brock Center after its benefactor, cost $35-40 million, would seat 3,000, and is scheduled to open in 2023.

[10][11] Willett Hall will remain in use as an academic facility, and provide support to the basketball teams as a practice and training venue.