CIAA Basketball Tournament returning to Baltimore for its 5th year

The 2025 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament will return to Baltimore in February, marking its fifth consecutive year at the CFG Bank Arena. This highly anticipated event is expected to attract over 150,000 student-athletes and basketball fans from February 25 to March 1. Notably, the CIAA is the oldest Black athletics conference in the United States and this year also commemorates the 50th anniversary of the women’s tournament, celebrating the accomplishments of female athletes.

In addition to the games, the tournament will feature a variety of festivities including a women’s empowerment town hall, brunch, and a panel discussion highlighting leaders in women’s sports. CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker emphasized that the event is a reflection of the dedication of member institutions and the spirit of resilience among student-athletes within the HBCU community.

The tournament will showcase 22 matchups and also include entertaining elements such as a battle of the bands and a step show, as well as networking opportunities for young attendees, according to Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott. This year's tournament is strategically scheduled during the last week of February, aligning with Black History Month in a city known for its significant Black population.

Mayor Scott expressed enthusiasm for hosting the tournament, highlighting Baltimore’s rich culture and culinary offerings, including its renowned crab dishes. The CIAA tournament has been held in Baltimore since 2021 after a long tenure in Charlotte, North Carolina, and is set to remain in the city through 2026.

The tournament has proven economically beneficial, generating $32.5 million in 2024 and creating more than 1,300 jobs while contributing $3.1 million in local and state taxes. Additionally, the event has boosted local tourism and promoted Black-owned businesses through Visit Baltimore’s "BOP" (Black-Owned and Proud) pass, which offers discounts to various attractions, restaurants, and retailers owned by Black entrepreneurs.