Charlotte is buzzing with excitement as the city prepares to host two days of NCAA Tournament games. The anticipation among fans is palpable as they eagerly await the chance to see their teams compete, while city leaders are eagerly looking forward to the significant economic boost that this event will bring.
Mayor Pro Tem Dante Anderson believes that the tournament will generate at least $10 million in revenue over four days. This money will come from a variety of sources, including ticket sales and increased business in the hospitality industry, such as hotels, restaurants, and bars. Anderson is excited about the lively atmosphere that he expects in uptown Charlotte during the tournament, not just for residents but also for visitors coming to the city. Hosting the NCAA Tournament provides an opportunity for Charlotte to showcase itself as a major sporting destination.
Charlotte has a long history of hosting successful sporting events, and past events have demonstrated the economic benefits of doing so. For example, the 2023 Jumpman Invitational generated $10.2 million in revenue, while the 2019 CIAA tournament is estimated to have brought in between $25-43 million for the city and surrounding region.
In addition to generating immediate revenue, Mayor Pro Tem Anderson believes that successfully hosting the NCAA Tournament will attract new visitors and residents to Charlotte and increase its appeal for future major sporting events. While it may not reach record-breaking levels like NBA All-Star Weekend, hosting this event is a significant step towards solidifying Charlotte’s reputation as a premier sporting destination.
