In a significant move for college athletics in Florida, the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) will bring both its Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments to Jacksonville, starting from 2026. This decision reunites the tournaments at a single location for the first time since 2013, an arrangement that serves to highlight Jacksonville’s allure as a central hub for sports, as confirmed in an announcement by ASUN Commissioner Jeff Bacon. The city’s dedicated facilities and fervent sporting community were key players in clinching the deal that will see VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena hosting the events, positioning the coastal city as a rising contender in the competitive sports-tourism market.
The week-long basketball showcase is expected to bolster Jacksonville's economy by over $10 million annually, with participation from all 12 ASUN member institutions. According to an official statement from the City of Jacksonville, the tournament will span 22 games, providing an action-packed experience for students and spectators alike. Mayor Donna Deegan welcomed the tournaments, with an emphasis on the anticipated economic boon and tourism inflow they will bring, while ASUN officials and local organizers predict the events will leave an indelible mark on the community's sports culture.
Details on the 2026 championships’ format, hotel accommodations, and ticketing are still in the pipeline and will be unveiled in the forthcoming months. Fans are encouraged to keep tabs on developments through the ASUN website and its social media channels. The groundwork laid by numerous city representatives and sports authorities underscores the meticulous planning aimed at delivering a standout championship experience. Commissioner Bacon even went as far as to address the student-athletes directly, assuring them that this endeavor is crafted with the intent to make their championship experience a memorable one.
According to the City of Jacksonville's official statement, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena is already gearing up for the major event. Making it clear that Jacksonville is indeed "Florida's Championship City," Michael Corrigan, president and CEO of Visit Jacksonville, reiterated the region's excitement to welcome guests and show off why the city deserves this title.
