Columbus earned global recognition for its hosting of the 2018 Women’s Final Four.
COLUMBUS (Nov. 21, 2022) – The NCAA Women’s Final Four is returning to Columbus and Nationwide Arena April 2 & 4, 2027.
Columbus has been a key ally in showcasing NCAA student-athletes and competitions, having hosted more than 100 events over the last 20 years. One of those events was the 2018 NCAA Women’s Final Four, which received SportsTravel magazine’s Sports Event of the Year, beating out the Super Bowl and Olympics.
“We are grateful to be a hub for women’s sports through our partnership with the NCAA,” said Linda Logan, CEO and President of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. “We raised the bar globally with our work on the 2018 Women’s Final Four and embrace the challenge to elevate the event even higher in 2027.”
Starting from a pool of 15 cities, Columbus was selected as one of seven finalists to host the event earlier this year. Following that announcement, the Greater Columbus Sports Commission, The Ohio State University and Nationwide Arena submitted a final bid and hosted a site visit from the NCAA in August.
“Incredible things happen when we come together in the name of sports,” said Gene Smith, Senior Vice President and Wolfe Foundation Endowed Athletic Director, The Ohio State University. “These championship events will have a profound impact on our university and community.”
The 2018 event brought in $21.7 million in direct visitor spending to the region. More than 80% of visitors were from outside of Ohio, with 60% making their first trip to Columbus.
“The 2018 Women’s Final Four was a thrill culminating in two OT semifinals and a buzzer beater. We cannot wait for the opportunity to host a future tournament and welcome players, coaches, programs, families and fans from all over the country to Nationwide Arena,” said Michael Gatto, COO of Columbus Arena Management and Senior Vice President, Nationwide Arena.
Read the NCAA’s full Women’s Final Four selection release here.