The James A. Rhode Athletic Center is home to the Bears Basketball Teams and Volleyball Team.  The multi-use building also serves as a practice and training facility for all other Shawnee State Sports Teams.  The gymnasium seats 1,500 for sporting events and 2,400 for concerts.

In addition to intercollegiate sports, the Athletic Center also houses the Sports Studies Program, the Golden Bears Senior Citizens Group, and the University weight room and cardiovascular room.

The James A. Rhodes Athletic Center is located at the East end of campus between 3rd Street and the Ohio River.