The multi-purpose Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena (ESA) opened on October 29, 1999 with an ice hockey game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the New Jersey Devils. In 2002, the complex was renamed... The multi-purpose Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena (ESA) opened on October 29, 1999 with an ice hockey game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the New Jersey Devils. In 2002, the complex was renamed RBC Center after RBC Bank obtained naming rights for a 20-year period. The center, home to NC State's men's basketball team and the Carolina Hurricanes NHL franchise, is owned by the Centennial Authority, whose board consists of state and local leaders as well as NC State's chancellor.