The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the nation’s first and oldest historically Black athletic conference, is excited to again stage the CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament in Baltimore, Maryland. Although the conference is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, the tournament moved to Baltimore in 2022, and it has proven to be hugely successful both for the conference and the city.
“You all know how proud we are to host the CIAA each and every year here in the city of Baltimore,” said Mayor Brandon Scott. “We know this is about culture, this is about family, this is about legacy and our future. For us, we are also very happy about the economic impact that it has. Since coming to Baltimore generating over $100 million in economic impact.”
Some of the kids who participated as helpers in the first tournament are now playing basketball at CIAA schools. It is uncommon to see men’s and women’s college basketball tournaments held together at one site, but the CIAA makes a bold statement toward gender equity. Also, CIAA events held in connection with the basketball tournament include Fan Fest, Career Expo, Education Day, Step Shows, Super Saturday, and more. Scott called it “hosting a big Black family reunion in Black Baltimore.”
The conference is using the hashtag #FebruaryIsCIAA. “February is Black History Month,” said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. “It’s about a legacy, it’s about leadership, it’s about community, and most of all it’s about excellence as we celebrate an incredible game that has shaped the heart of HBCU sports and Black tourism.”
This is the 51st CIAA women’s basketball tournament. There is a commitment to keep the tournament in Baltimore at least through 2029. Baltimore native Sonia Chase, a former WNBA player turned sports executive and philanthropist, is an official ambassador for the tournament. She was the first graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, to be drafted into the WNBA. Chase currently works in the area of NIL/athlete compensation and NIL education.
“We appreciate being in the Charm City,” said McWilliams Parker, who noted that only three HBCU women’s programs have won Division II NCAA titles. “We are celebrating the legacy and history of individuals who have proved and shown how important this tournament is and how to share those stories. … Milestones speak to the longevity of resilience and cultural impact of the CIAA and its community partners.”
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