ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — Atlantic City will remain the home of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships through 2031, a decision local leaders say will continue to deliver significant economic benefits while reinforcing the city’s reputation as a premier destination for collegiate sports.
The MAAC announced this week that its Council of Presidents unanimously approved a five-year extension keeping the tournaments at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, marking the longest host-site commitment in conference history. The agreement continues a partnership that began in 2020 and has grown steadily in attendance and national visibility.
“Atlantic City’s long-term investment in the MAAC Basketball Championships gives us the ability to continue elevating the Conference’s marquee event,” MAAC Commissioner Travis Tellitocci said in a statement. “The city provides a first-class championship environment for our student-athletes and fans.”
Beyond basketball, the championships have become a reliable economic driver for Atlantic City during the early spring tourism season. According to Visit Atlantic City and Atlantic City Sports Commission estimates, the 2026 tournament — scheduled for March 5–10 — is expected to attract approximately 10,000 visitors, generate nearly 2,000 hotel room nights and contribute an estimated $3.7 million in regional economic impact through spending on lodging, dining, transportation and entertainment.
“Sports tourism is a vital part of our local economy,” said Gary Musich, president and CEO of Visit Atlantic City. “Events like the MAAC Championships help fill hotel rooms, support small businesses and bring visitors to Atlantic City during a key shoulder season.”
Local restaurants, casinos and retail businesses along the Boardwalk and in surrounding neighborhoods have seen consistent increases in foot traffic during championship week in recent years, according to city tourism officials. Many businesses report that the multi-day format — which features both men’s and women’s tournaments — encourages longer stays and repeat visits.
Boardwalk Hall General Manager Jim McDonald said the extended agreement also benefits the city beyond immediate spending. “Having the MAAC here year after year allows Atlantic City to showcase itself on a national stage through ESPN broadcasts and digital coverage,” McDonald said. “That exposure helps attract future sporting events, conventions and visitors.”
City officials say the championships complement broader efforts to diversify Atlantic City’s economy by expanding its sports and entertainment portfolio, while providing steady work for hospitality employees and seasonal staff.
With the MAAC locked in through 2031, Atlantic City leaders say the focus now turns to continuing to enhance the fan experience and building on the momentum the event has created.
“This partnership has become a win for the conference and a win for our community,” Musich said. “We’re proud to continue hosting.”
MAAC Championships Provide Boost for Hotels, Restaurants
Hotels and restaurants across Atlantic City are expected to see a noticeable uptick in business during the MAAC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships, which return to Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in March.
Tourism officials estimate the multi-day tournament will generate nearly 2,000 hotel room nights, with teams, fans, conference officials and media filling rooms citywide. Properties along the Boardwalk and near the Convention Center have traditionally reported strong occupancy during championship week.
Restaurants and bars, particularly those near Boardwalk Hall and the Marina District, also benefit from increased foot traffic as visitors dine out between games and attend post-game events. City officials note the combined men’s and women’s tournament format encourages longer stays, spreading spending across multiple days.
Local leaders say events like the MAAC Championships help support year-round employment and strengthen Atlantic City’s hospitality sector during the early spring tourism season.
