The American Athletic Conference (AAC) has announced a significant change in the venues for its postseason basketball tournaments. After a successful five-year stint in Texas, the AAC will be moving its men's and women's basketball tournaments to Birmingham, Alabama, and Tampa, Florida, over the next three seasons.

New Venues for the AAC Tournaments

The Legacy Arena in Birmingham will host the tournaments in 2025, while the Yuengling Center in Tampa will be the venue for 2027 and 2028. This marks the first time these cities will host the AAC basketball tournaments, bringing fresh excitement to the league.

Decision-Making Process

The decision to move the tournaments was made by the AAC athletic directors, who considered several factors, including the ability of the venues to accommodate both men's and women's tournaments and the support from local committees. The other finalists for the new sites were Memphis, Tennessee, and Wichita, Kansas, both of which have previously hosted AAC events.

A New Era for AAC Basketball

AAC Commissioner Tim Pernetti expressed enthusiasm about the move, stating, "We are thrilled to bring our basketball championships to Birmingham and Tampa. Our top priority was to deliver the best possible experience for our student-athletes. The support from these cities will make these events unforgettable for our players and fans."

Past Success in Texas

The AAC tournaments have been held at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, for the past five seasons. The venue was also set to host the AAC men's tournament in 2020, but the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking Ahead

With the move to Birmingham and Tampa, the AAC is poised to offer a unique and memorable experience for its teams and fans. The new venues are expected to provide state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant atmosphere, further elevating the profile of AAC basketball.

As the AAC embarks on this new chapter, the focus remains on creating an exceptional experience for all involved, ensuring that the tournaments continue to be a highlight of the college basketball season.