Arizona making big preparations for 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four in Glendale

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) — Arizona is making its final preparations to host the Final Four and on Wednesday, state leaders went over details on the project and the major economic impact it has on the Valley.

The Grand Canyon State is no stranger to hosting some of the biggest sporting events in the country. Now, for the second time, the NCAA Men’s Final Four will be hosted at Glendale’s State Farm Stadium on April 6 and 8. “This is a significant event. To come to Phoenix for the second time means that Phoenix did it right, and they have continued to do the things that they were supposed to do,” said Charles McClelland, chairman of Division I Men’s Basketball Committee.

The last time the Final Four was in town, the Arizona Office of Tourism estimates that it brought in 59,000 people from out-of-state, generating millions of dollars for our economy. “For one thing, it drives huge economic impact. Not just for our hotels but also for our restaurants and our small businesses, $320 million in economic impact from the last Final Four,” said Lisa Urias, CEO of the Arizona Office of Tourism.

This year is expected to drive more people to the Valley. In less than three months, the committee says they’ll be ready for the Final Four both on and off the court. “We’ve been planning for this for over a year, so we’re getting into crunch time. We are working with all of our partners to make sure everything is planned from a safety standpoint, logistics, operations,” said Jay Parry, CEO of the Phoenix Local Organizing Committee.

For four days, fans can enjoy several events, including free concerts and tailgates. For more information, click/tap here.

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