The HBCU Athletic Conference has secured a deal that will continue a strong partnership for its postseason basketball tournament.
The league announced on Thursday that the men’s and women’s tournaments will be held in 2005 and 2026 at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
“Visit Tuscaloosa and Stillman College have been great partners and have helped elevate the championship experience for our men’s and women’s basketball tournaments,” said HBCUAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes.
Building on the success of the 2024 tournament, which marked the inaugural year of this partnership, the event has already proven to be a significant boost for the local economy, generating approximately $750,000 in economic impact.
Visit Tuscaloosa Awarded Bid to Host HBCU Athletic Conference Hope Credit Union Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships for 2025 and 2026https://t.co/DwQqc9sj7b#WhereWinnersThrive #HBCUAC #GoStillman #VisitTuscaloosa pic.twitter.com/iuQZ3CC2M0
— HBCU Athletic Conference (@HBCUAC) August 22, 2024
With the addition of three new schools to the conference, including Stillman College as the host, the tournament will feature 13 institutions in 24 total games during the six days. The impact is projected to approach $1 million in the upcoming years.
“Tuscaloosa is honored to continue our partnership with the HBCU Athletic Conference,” said Kelsey Rush, President & CEO of Visit Tuscaloosa. “While hosting this first-class championship experience will bring economic benefits to our community, it also aligns with our desire to partner with local organizations and institutions such as Stillman College to showcase our dynamic community.”
Said Stillman athletic director Terrance Whittle:
“After successfully hosting the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Basketball Championships in 2024, we are excited to extend our host bid and now be able to showcase our Stillman Tigers in the event as first-year members of the newly branded HBCU Athletic Conference.
“Our community thrives on events that bring people together, and we are committed to offering an outstanding experience for all participants and spectators. We invite the Tuscaloosa community and West Alabama to join us in Birthright Alumni Hall throughout the tournament to experience a full week of competitive basketball.”
Courtesy: HBCUAC