NCAA Chooses Times Union Center for Championship Site

The NCAA has awarded the 2019 Division I Women’s Basketball Regional and the 2020 Division I Men’s Basketball First and Second Round championships to the Times Union Center. More than great for fans, the news also means a substantial economic impact for the area; according to Destination Marketing Association International, NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball is projecting an impact of $3.25M. In 2015, NCAA women’s basketball brought in $1.3M in total sales, including $793K in direct sales. In 2016, NCAA hockey brought in $849K in total sales, including $527K in direct sales.

The Times Union Center previously hosted the NCAA Men’s Basketball East Regional in 1995 and 2003. Both years, teams competed in front of sold-out crowds. The same is expected for 2020.

“The opportunity to host NCAA Championships is tremendous for Albany County, the city and the region at large. These championships will highlight what a world-class venue the Times Union Center is and provide a significant boost to the local economy. The work we are doing to upgrade and enhance the facility will provide a great experience for fans who attend. We are looking forward to watching the best in college athletics right here in Albany. Our efforts to market the arena and the region have proven successful with this exciting announcement and this is just the beginning for the Times Union Center,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy.

The SMG-managed facility is currently undergoing a $19 million renovation that will result in an upgrade to the S Pearl Street entrance (rendering shown here).

Division I Women’s Basketball was first hosted at the Times Union Center by the MAAC and Siena college in 2015. Times Union Center was previously selected as a regional host site for 2018 and 2019 will mark the third-time NCAA® Women's Basketball will be held in Albany.