All eyes are on Providence as several of the league’s top teams and legendary coaches arrive in Rhode Island for Rounds 1 & 2 of the NCAA DI Men’s Basketball Championship at the Amica Mutual Pavilion (AMP).
On Thursday, March 20, the AMP will host Purdue versus High Point at 12:40 pm, Clemson versus McNeese at 3:15 pm, Kansas versus Arkansas at 7:10 pm, and Saint John’s versus Omaha at 9:45 pm.
The AMP will host Round 2 action on Saturday, March 22.
Representatives of the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau (PWCVB) and the Rhode Island Sports Commission were joined by host hotel staff and volunteers to welcome the teams as they arrived on Tuesday. The tournament is expected to bring an estimated direct economic impact of $3.7 million.
“We’re excited to host these storied matchups which are sure to produce some of the most memorable games of the tournament,” said Kristen Adamo, president and CEO of the PWCVB. “Especially with several high-profile teams and fan-favorite storylines coming to Providence, that’s good news for tourism – our hotels are filling up, bars and restaurants are booked, and overall we’re ready to put Providence in the national spotlight once again. Congratulations to all of the teams facing off at the AMP this week!”
Fans can find everything they need to know at the PWCVB’s #PVDHoops headquarters website, including an updated event schedule with details on open practice and game times, a list of block parties throughout the city, and tips to sign up for the mobile guide.
“The City of Providence and the State of Rhode Island love college basketball and have supported this event at the highest level each time we have hosted the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Amica Mutual Pavilion,” Providence College Athletic Director Steve Napolillo said. “We look forward to an incredible week that will showcase how special our City and State are to basketball fans across the country.”
“We are incredibly proud to welcome the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball teams to the AMP,” said Rhode Island Convention Center Authority’s Executive Director Daniel McConaghy. “This prestigious event marks a significant milestone for our city, and we eagerly anticipate the economic boost it will bring to our state, benefiting local businesses, creating jobs, and showcasing the vibrant spirit of Rhode Island to a national audience.”
