CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The Champaign-Urbana area is gearing up to host the Illinois Middle School Basketball Championships for the fourth consecutive year, from March 21–23. A total of 184 boys’ and girls’ teams from 4th to 8th grade will compete across various divisions representing both school and club teams. The games will take place at several key locations: the University of Illinois Campus Recreation’s Activities & Recreation Center (ARC), the Champaign Park District’s Leonhard Center and Martens Center, Brookens Gym, and St. Thomas More High School.
Bill Reinking, Executive Director of the State Basketball Championship, shared his excitement about returning to the region. “We are thrilled to bring our popular annual state tournament to Champaign-Urbana. The area is an ideal location for teams traveling from Rockford, Chicago Metro, Springfield, Carbondale, and more. Having the University of Illinois ARC with 10 courts under one roof provides an unparalleled experience for basketball families.”
Mark Brown, Director of Sports, Events, and Film with Experience Champaign-Urbana, also expressed enthusiasm about the event’s impact on the local community. “Basketball holds a special place in our community, and we’re honored to continue to host athletes and fans, ensuring they have a top-tier experience at the championships.”
The event is expected to bring a significant economic boost, with an estimated $2.1 million in local impact.
Spectators can purchase single-day tickets for $18 or 3-day passes ranging from $32 to $36. Tickets are available online at State Basketball Championship Tickets. For more details, reach out to Mark Brown at markb@experiencecu.org or 217-351-4133.