FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Elliott Scott
Kansas City Sports Commission Secures Extension for Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Championships through 2031
KANSAS CITY, MO (March 12, 2024) – Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark announced that the Conference has extended its agreement to keep both the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City for the next seven years through 2031, the culmination of months of discussions between the Big 12 Conference, Kansas City Sports Commission and T-Mobile Center.
“Kansas City has played a critical role in the history of the Big 12 and I’m happy to say that it will continue to play a big role through 2031,” said Yormark. “When I came here the first time to the community, met with many of the leaders, it was a real easy decision when I went back to Dallas that we needed to double down on this community. The fan support is tremendous. The community is tremendous."
The landmark agreement solidifies the partnership between the Conference, the city of Kansas City and the state-of-the-art venue, ensuring fans of both the women’s and men’s tournaments can continue to enjoy the excitement of elite collegiate basketball for years to come. The 2024 men’s and women’s tournaments are projected to have an estimated $32 million economic impact throughout the Kansas City region.
"It's an amazing time to be in Kansas City, and it's an amazing time to invest in Kansas City," said Mayor Quinton Lucas. "The Big 12 Conference is part of Kansas City's DNA. We all have stories about the Big 12, or if we're old enough, the Big Eight here in Kansas City. We're excited to continue to share the story in Kansas City."
Kansas City has hosted the men’s tournament 23 times, more than any other city. The event routinely draws thousands of people to Downtown Kansas City, providing a significant economic lift for local hotels, restaurants and businesses.
“To everyone who has participated in the Big 12 festivities, whether at the Power & Light District, Big 12 Fan Fest or T-Mobile Center: thank you. Your support is deeply appreciated by myself, my team and the many partners it takes to do an event of this scale,” said Kathy Nelson, President and CEO of the Kansas City Sports Commission, WIN for KC and Visit KC. “And finally, I’d like to recognize Commissioner Yormark and his staff. Thank you for trusting us with the future of Big 12 basketball and thank you for investing in Kansas City’s ongoing momentum.”
About the Kansas City Sports Commission
The mission of the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation is to drive Kansas City’s overall sports strategy, to enrich the quality of life, create economic impact and raise visibility for our region. As a privately-funded nonprofit, we are entirely dependent on your support. For the latest on Kansas City Sports Commission news, follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Also follow the Garmin Kansas City Marathon on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
###