Tuscaloosa Named Host City for ARPA Youth Tournaments

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has been chosen as the host city for the 2026 and 2027 Alabama Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) Boys and Girls State Basketball Championships.

Visit Tuscaloosa and the Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority (PARA) is excited to share this news and welcome athletes, families, and fans from across the state.

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The 2026 tournament is scheduled to take place from Friday, March 13, to Sunday, March 15, and will be held at PARA facilities and local school gyms.

According to the press release, “Nearly 100 youth basketball teams from across Alabama are expected to compete in Tuscaloosa. Teams qualify for the State Championships by advancing through their local Parks and Recreation leagues.”

“Visit Tuscaloosa is proud to once again partner with ARPA and PARA to serve as the host city for the 2026 and 2027 Boys and Girls State Basketball Championship,” said Kelsey Rush, President and CEO of Visit Tuscaloosa. “With the addition of girls’ teams joining the event, we expect the tournaments to be even bigger and better, bringing more visitors to Tuscaloosa while showcasing our community as a destination for youth sports.”

Building on the momentum of last year’s ARPA Boys State Basketball Tournament, which drew over 1,200 players, families, and fans to Tuscaloosa. The 2026 championship is set to grow even larger with the addition of approximately 40 girls’ teams. This expanded event is projected to generate an economic impact exceeding $1 million.

“We are thrilled to bring the Boys and Girls State Basketball Championships to Tuscaloosa in both 2026 and 2027. Tuscaloosa’s outstanding facilities, dedicated partners, and proven success in hosting statewide tournaments make it the perfect home for this event,” said Natalie Norman, ARPA’s Youth Athletics Chair. “We look forward to welcoming teams from across Alabama for an unforgettable championship experience.”