Las Vegas has been named a finalist to host future NCAA men's and women's Final Four events scheduled between 2032 and 2036. The announcement arrives five years before the city hosts its first Men's Final Four in April 2028 at Allegiant Stadium.
For the men's tournament, Las Vegas joins six other finalist cities: Denver, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Nashville, and New Orleans. The NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Committee chair Martin Newton said narrowing the field to seven cities was challenging given the record interest, noting the group offers a blend of experienced hosts and potential newcomers. Site decisions are expected in July.
On the women's side, Las Vegas is a finalist alongside Detroit, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, New Orleans, Phoenix, and San Antonio. NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Committee chair Liz Darger said the finalists demonstrated the infrastructure, venues, hotel accommodations, and community support needed for an exceptional championship experience. If selected, Las Vegas and Detroit would become first-time hosts of the Women's Final Four.
The city's bid follows a pattern similar to its Super Bowl hosting history; Las Vegas hosted Super Bowl LVIII in 2024 and is scheduled to host again in 2029. The city will also host the College Football Playoff national championship game in January and held the NCAA Division I Frozen Four at T-Mobile Arena in April.
Both NCAA basketball committees discussed the possibility of hosting the men's and women's Final Fours at the same site on the same weekend. Neither committee supported the idea, though NCAA staff will study the feasibility of the concept, which could become possible in 2037 or later.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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