Tampa is making NCAA Tournament history yet again. This year, the city becomes the first to host the NCAA Women’s Final Four for the fourth time, proving its place as a premier destination for championship basketball. The action unfolds at Amalie Arena on April 4 and 6, where fans will flood downtown, draped in school colors and charged with excitement. With UCLA and South Carolina already set to compete, the final two teams will be determined on March 31 as UConn faces USC and Texas battles TCU for their shot at glory.
Tampa Takes Center Court for the Final Four
The tournament tips off on Friday, April 4, with two thrilling semifinal matchups at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., broadcast live on ESPN. The stakes rise even higher on Sunday, April 6, when the national title game takes place at 3 p.m. on ABC. This electrifying weekend solidifies Tampa’s reputation as a powerhouse host for college basketball’s biggest moments.
Lynn Holzman, NCAA Vice President of Women’s Basketball, expressed her enthusiasm for the city’s fourth-time hosting duties. “Tampa has been an incredible partner, and we’re excited to return to Tampa Bay to crown our national champion in April,” she said. “As we continue to build on the success of the women’s basketball championship, Tampa is the perfect location for this year’s Final Four showdown.”
Beyond the Game: Concerts, Fan Experiences, and More
Basketball isn’t the only attraction in Tampa this week. Fans can enjoy a whirlwind of interactive experiences, concerts, and family-friendly festivities across the city. Michael Kelly, South Florida’s Vice President for Athletics, emphasized the city’s dedication to hosting world-class events. “This is a testament to the collaboration of Team Tampa Bay, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, and countless volunteers who work tirelessly to create an unforgettable experience,” he said.
Tourney Town: A Fan Festival Like No Other
From Thursday, April 3, through Sunday, April 6, the Tampa Convention Center (333 S Franklin Street) will transform into Tourney Town, an interactive fan zone packed with food, games, and entertainment. This free festival offers attendees the chance to meet basketball legends, participate in interactive games, collect exclusive giveaways, and browse licensed merchandise.
Meanwhile, Party on the Plaza at Cotanchobee Park (601 Water Street) will feature food vendors, live music, and interactive exhibits to get fans hyped before the big games.
A Star-Studded Concert Event at Curtis Hixon Park
Music lovers won’t be left out of the action. Curtis Hixon Park (600 N Ashley Dr) will host the Super Saturday Concert, presented by AT&T, headlined by Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist GloRilla. Gates open at 6 p.m., with DJ ReRe setting the stage before GloRilla takes over at 8 p.m. This high-energy event promises to be a must-attend experience for fans looking to celebrate the Final Four weekend in style.
Sneak Peek: Open Practices and More
For those eager to get an inside look at the competing teams, Amalie Arena will open its doors for the Women’s Final Four Super Saturday Practice. This exclusive event offers fans a rare opportunity to witness teams fine-tuning their strategies before taking the court in pursuit of a national championship.
The NCAA Final Four Legacy Project Arrives in Tampa
Beyond the games and entertainment, Tampa is also embracing the Final Four Legacy Project, presented by Dove. This initiative focuses on community improvement, including refurbishing the indoor court at the Riverfront Rec Center. Additionally, young fans will have the chance to participate in the Women’s Final Four Bounce, presented by Buick. Thousands of kids will parade along the Tampa Riverwalk on April 5 at 11 a.m., dribbling basketballs and celebrating the sport they love.
Rob Higgins, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, highlighted how much Tampa has evolved since hosting in 2019. “We have a compact and walkable footprint ideal for this championship, and we can’t wait to roll out the red carpet for the student-athletes and fans,” he said.
Don’t Miss a Second of the Action
Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or just looking for an exciting weekend in Tampa, the NCAA Women’s Final Four promises an unforgettable experience. From high-stakes matchups and all-star concerts to fan-friendly events and community initiatives, Tampa is set to deliver a championship-caliber spectacle. The only question left is: Are you ready for the madness?
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