Charlotte Bids for CIAA Tournament Return, Going Up Against Baltimore for 2027-2029 Games

City tourism leaders in Charlotte are putting together a bid to bring back the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association basketball tournaments. Their proposal, due by mid-April 2024, aims to secure the 2027-2029 events.

The tournaments brought huge economic benefits during their 2006-2020 stay in Charlotte. Local businesses pulled in $400 million throughout those years. In a peak year, 2019 brought in 140,000 fans who spent $43.7 million.

Marcus Clarke, CIAA senior associate commissioner for championships, told CBJ that, "a couple of smaller cities contacted the conference last month inquiring about a potential bid and remain in discussions." Clarke said Baltimore and Charlotte have expressed their commitment to submit bids.

The race for hosting rights has come down to Baltimore versus Charlotte. After spending $250 million on arena improvements, Baltimore has seen a 50% jump in revenue since getting the tournament.

Three key groups: Charlotte Sports, the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA), and city officials, are working together on the bid. "We view this bid not only as a chance to host the tournaments but as an opportunity to strengthen and renew the bond between the CIAA and the Charlotte community," said Steve Bagwell, CRVA CEO.

Past tournaments brought strong business growth. Hotel stays went up 5.4% in 2015, while local businesses saw big gains during tournament week, according to James Mitchell.

When choosing hosts, CIAA officials look at arena quality, hotel rooms, and community backing. Raleigh dropped out after venue scheduling conflicts made it impossible to bid.

Past losses still hurt. Charlotte lost to Baltimore in 2019, coming up $1 million short in their bid. High hotel prices and security problems during previous events also worried CIAA leaders.

The Toyota Fan Fest and Career Expo were huge hits in Charlotte. Having the tournament helped the city land other major events, including the 2012 Democratic National Convention.

CIAA officials will pick the winner by June 2025. Baltimore gets set to host next year's tournament from February 25 to March 1, 2025.