Miles College, along with the City of Birmingham, was selected as the host of two future NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball Elite 8, which is the championship round in Division II. In an announcement made by the NCAA, the 2020 and 2022 versions of the championships will be held at the Birmingham CrossPlex.
“This was a wonderful opportunity for Miles College to continue serve as a steward of the NCAA and continue its strong partnership with the City of Birmingham,” said Miles athletic director Phillip Wallace, Jr. “As one of the few Historically Black Colleges to have had an opportunity to serve as a host of a NCAA Championship, we look forward to being part of what will certainly be an outstanding experience for student-athletes and fans.”
According to the NCAA, criteria for selecting the host sites included creating what will be an exceptional experience for the student-athletes, along with adherence to NCAA bid specifications. Specifications can include, but are not limited to, providing optimal facilities; ease of travel to the location and ample lodging; and adherence to NCAA principles, which include providing an atmosphere that is safe and respects the dignity of all attendees. The City of Birmingham, which was awarded 13 total championships from 2019-22, anticipates a financial impact of more than $750,000 for each event.
“The city of Birmingham is proud to have such a strong partnership with the NCAA,” Birmingham Mayor William Bell said in a statement. “We feel that the CrossPlex provides the student athletes a world-class experience and the opportunity to compete in a one-of-a-kind facility. We look forward to many more years of partnering with the NCAA to bring their National Championships to Birmingham.”
Courtesy: Miles Athletics
