Big West Basketball Championships 2026: Tickets, Schedule & A Cause Worth Supporting
The excitement is building for the 2026 Credit Union 1 Big West Basketball Championships, set to take place at Lee’s Family Forum. Single-session tickets are now available, offering fans the chance to witness the thrilling competition for both men’s and women’s basketball supremacy. Tickets can be purchased through each team’s athletic ticket office or directly via AXS.com.
Ticket Information & Seating Options
Courtside seating provides an up-close and personal experience, with Row 2 seats priced at $79 per session. Unfortunately, Row 1 courtside seats are already sold out, demonstrating high demand for premium viewing. General admission tickets are more accessible, priced at $19 for all women’s sessions and $34 for all men’s sessions, including the championship game. Remember that all AXS.com purchases will include additional fees.
Each session features two games, providing a full day of basketball action. The women’s tournament kicks off on Wednesday, March 11th, with the No. 5 and No. 8 seeds facing off at noon, followed by the No. 6 and No. 7 seeds at 2:30 p.m. (Session 1). The men’s tournament begins later that day at 6 p.m. (Session 2) with the No. 5 and No. 8 seeds, followed by the No. 6 and No. 7 seeds at 8:30 p.m.
Beyond the Game: Supporting “Tough Like Tammy”
This year’s championships are about more than just basketball. Fans are encouraged to support “Tough Like Tammy,” a powerful fundraising initiative jointly run by The Big West and its member institutions, in partnership with the Kay Yow Cancer Fund. Parking is free, but attendees are invited to donate to this worthy cause.
The goal is to raise $25,000, which will unlock a matching $50,000 grant from the Kay Yow Cancer Fund. These funds will directly assist women battling cancer in underserved communities throughout Southern California. This initiative highlights the Big West’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. You can learn more and contribute at BigWest.org/TLT.
Tournament Schedule Breakdown
The tournament unfolds over four days, culminating in championship games on Saturday, March 14th. Here’s a quick look at the schedule:
- March 11th (Sessions 1 & 2): First-round matchups for both men’s and women’s tournaments.
- March 12th (Sessions 3 & 4): Second-round games for both tournaments.
- March 13th (Session 5 & 6): Women’s and men’s quarterfinals. Men’s games televised on ESPN networks.
- March 14th (Session 7): Championship games for both men’s and women’s basketball, televised on ESPN. Women’s championship at 3 p.m., followed by the men’s championship at 7 p.m.
Detailed session schedules and ticket links can be found on AXS.com.
The Growing Trend of Cause-Related Marketing in College Sports
The Big West’s partnership with “Tough Like Tammy” exemplifies a growing trend in college athletics: cause-related marketing. Universities are increasingly recognizing the power of aligning their sporting events with charitable organizations. This not only raises funds for important causes but also enhances the university’s brand image and fosters stronger connections with fans.
According to a 2023 study by the Sports Business Journal, 78% of sports fans are more likely to support a team or league that is actively involved in social responsibility initiatives. This demonstrates a clear consumer preference for organizations that give back to the community. We’ve seen similar initiatives in other conferences, such as the Pac-12’s support of the American Cancer Society and the Big Ten’s commitment to mental health awareness.
The Rise of Digital Ticketing and Fan Experience
The exclusive use of AXS.com for ticket sales highlights another significant trend: the shift towards digital ticketing. Digital ticketing offers numerous benefits, including reduced fraud, streamlined entry processes, and valuable data insights for event organizers. AXS, for example, utilizes a secure blockchain-based ticketing system, enhancing security and transparency.
Furthermore, digital platforms allow for personalized fan experiences. Event organizers can leverage data to offer targeted promotions, customized content, and exclusive access to events. This is crucial for attracting and retaining fans in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape. Companies like SeatGeek and Ticketmaster are also investing heavily in enhancing the digital ticketing experience.
The Impact of ESPN Coverage on College Basketball
The fact that the men’s quarterfinals and championship games will be televised on ESPN networks underscores the network’s significant influence on college basketball. ESPN’s coverage provides unparalleled exposure for the Big West Conference and its member institutions, attracting a wider audience and boosting the profile of the tournament.
ESPN’s investment in college basketball has grown exponentially over the past two decades. In 2023, ESPN signed a 10-year extension with the NCAA to continue broadcasting the Men’s Basketball Tournament, for a reported $9.6 billion. This demonstrates the network’s unwavering commitment to the sport and its belief in its long-term growth potential.
FAQ
- Where can I buy tickets? Tickets are available through each team’s athletic ticket office and AXS.com.
- How much do tickets cost? Courtside seats are $79 (Row 2), and general admission is $19 for women’s sessions and $34 for men’s sessions.
- Is parking free? Yes, parking is free, but donations to “Tough Like Tammy” are encouraged.
- Where can I learn more about “Tough Like Tammy”? Visit BigWest.org/TLT.
Pro Tip: Follow the Big West Conference on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and potential ticket giveaways!
Don’t miss the action! The 2026 Big West Basketball Championships promise thrilling competition, a meaningful cause, and an unforgettable experience for fans. Explore the full schedule and secure your tickets today.
