CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The CIAA Education Day kicks off for 5,000 students in the Charlotte area at the Convention Center.
It’s one of the many benefits of keeping the tournament in town.
Columnist Mary C. Curtis explains why the tournament is so sought after.
The crowds are expected to contribute up to $40 million to the local economy as they enjoy parties, concerts and basketball games. The city puts in about $1 million to host the tournament.
The CIAA didn’t renew the commitment to keep the tournament in Charlotte. They’re taking bids from cities, including Atlanta, Raleigh, D.C., Greensboro, Baltimore, and Brooklyn.
Cities want to host it because it’s the third largest tournament in the NCAA behind the ACC and Big East.
