The 64th Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Tournament returns to Charlotte, NC, Feb. 24 - 28, 2009 as one of the largest and financially successful basketball tournaments in the United States. The annual tournament showcases athletic competition in men's and women's basketball during five days of play culminating with the championship game.
The CIAA has produced several of the finest players to grace the hardwood in collegiate and professional sports. The list includes NBA greats Earl "The Pearl" Monroe, Earl Lloyd, Sam Jones, Al Attles, Charles Oakley, Rick Mahorn and Ben Wallace. The accomplishments of these former student athletes are one of the thousands of great stories about the CIAA.
In addition to basketball, fans have the opportunity to attend numerous events surrounding the tournament. The variety of activities is astounding. The CIAA tournament provides the backdrop for celebrity hosted after parties, spirited student step shows, the CIAA Fan Experience, concerts, a show stopping education, networking opportunities with business professionals, reunions with alumni and the chance to meet and mingle with old friends.
Over 181,000 fans attend the 2008 CIAA tournament. As the fan base continues to grow, so does the roster of notables that can be seen at the tournament and affiliated events. The CIAA tournament has welcomed Steve Harvey (syndicated radio program), Sean Combs (a.k.a. P. Diddy, recording and apparel mogul), Earvin "Magic" Johnson (NBA Hall of Fame and entrepreneur), Jurnee Smollett, Morris Chestnut, Idris Elba (major motion picture actors), Bow Wow, Tiffany Evans, CeCe Winans, Ruben Studdard, Raheem DeVaughan and Chrisette Michele (all recording artists) as guests. The 2009 tournament is expected to produce an equally impressive list of celebrity attendees.
Increased national TV coverage and corporate partner support have contributed to the rapid growth of the CIAA tournament. Attendance for the tournament games has tripled since 1999 and the 2009 tournament is expected to generate over $2 million in scholarship funds for member colleges and universities - another one of the thousands of great stories the CIAA is proud to share.
