NCAA Announces Exciting Host Sites for Upcoming Championships
In a significant development, the NCAA has chosen over 240 host sites for its various championship events, primarily for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 seasons. This decision marks the NCAA’s shift from a traditional four-year site selection cycle to a more efficient two-year process, showcasing the growing interest from cities and universities eager to host these prestigious events.
The NCAA received an impressive 1,200 bids from schools, conferences, cities, and sports commissions across 47 states and Washington, D.C. This broad interest highlights the dedication and enthusiasm surrounding NCAA championships. “The enthusiasm and interest from around the country to host NCAA championships continues to be a testament to the quality of our events,” noted Lynda Tealer, NCAA senior vice president of championships.
Among the selections, Florida topped the list with a staggering 22 events, while Pennsylvania and Texas each secured 20. California and North Carolina followed closely with 17. The Division I Men’s Basketball Championship will take place in 25 cities across 18 states, ensuring that fans nationwide can experience the thrill of March Madness.
The University of Dayton Arena continues its remarkable run by hosting the Division I Men’s Basketball First Four through 2028, having seen a total of 137 tournament games at this venue, the most in history. Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium also shines, set to host the 2027 Midwest Regional, tying its record for the most regional games hosted.
This year’s selection also introduced regional sites for the Division I Women’s Basketball Championship, with Las Vegas and Philadelphia set to welcome teams in 2027, while Portland and Washington D.C. will take the stage in 2028. Notably, this will be the first time Las Vegas hosts the championship since 1991.
A remarkable development is the move of the Division I Wrestling Championships to U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis in 2028, marking a second attempt after a previous cancellation due to the pandemic. Moreover, the Division I Women’s Volleyball Championship returns to the Alamodome in San Antonio, offering fans a chance to enjoy this event once again.
Lynn Holzman from the NCAA emphasizes the significance of these selections, mentioning, “These cities, recognized as epicenters of the sport, have a proven track record of hosting successful events.” As these events draw near, the excitement builds for what is sure to be an unforgettable few years in NCAA championships.
