Baltimore to Host the 2026 CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament

The 2026 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament returns to Baltimore, Maryland February 24–28 at CFG Bank Arena. Timed to Black History Month, the tournament continues one of the most enduring and culturally significant traditions in collegiate athletics.

Founded more than 80 years ago, the CIAA Basketball Tournament has grown into one of the largest and most celebrated events in the NCAA. Often described as the HBCU community’s version of March Madness, the tournament brings together student-athletes, alumni, families, celebrities, and community leaders from across the country for a week-long celebration of competition, culture, and connection. Each year, the event draws nearly 100,000 fans and generates more than $300 million in economic impact, while awarding millions of dollars in scholarships and helping shape generations of leaders on and off the court.

The 2026 tournament features 22 men’s and women’s playoff games, alongside signature events including Fan Fest, Career Expo, Education Day, Step Shows, Super Saturday, A-List Performances, community service initiatives, and a series of town halls and symposiums focused on education, health, financial wellness, and innovation. As part of the CIAA’s multi-year partnership with ESPN, all games will be broadcast exclusively on ESPN+, with championship matchups also airing on ESPNU, ensuring national visibility for the nation’s oldest historically Black athletic conference.

Baltimore continues to serve as a fitting host city for the tournament, given its deep ties to Black history, culture, and economic impact. Tournament officials and city leaders have emphasized the event’s ability to celebrate legacy while driving meaningful investment into local communities and businesses. Fans can purchase tickets, book hotels,  access tournament information, and check for special promotions at baltimore.org/ciaa.