“Tampa has treated us well,” said UConn senior star Paige Bueckers after leading the Huskies to a national championship inside a sold-out Amalie Arena. Her words perfectly captured the energy of a city that welcomed fans, athletes, and the national spotlight for a thrilling Final Four weekend.
This marked the fourth time Tampa has hosted the NCAA Women’s Final Four, and the city delivered on every level. UConn’s victory over South Carolina in the championship game secured the program’s record-setting 12th national title—the most in college basketball history, men’s or women’s. Along the way, the Huskies knocked off three No. 1 seeds, showcasing their resilience and championship pedigree.
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Sold-out crowds enjoy the Final Four inside Amalie Arena
A total of 19,777 fans packed Amalie Arena for the title game, marking the fourth consecutive sellout of the championship. Fans traveled from across the country—including Texas, South Carolina, California, and Connecticut—filling hotels, restaurants, and bars throughout the city. Officials expect the event to have a multi-million dollar economic impact, further highlighting Tampa’s ability to host major sporting events.
Beyond the court, the weekend transformed downtown into a full-blown celebration. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park hit capacity during the high-energy Super Saturday concert, headlined by hip-hop star GloRilla. Her performance electrified the crowd and kept the momentum rolling between games. Meanwhile, sold-out Cross-Bay Ferry rides revealed how excited the entire region was to be part of the action.
Multiple events draw thousands to downtown Tampa
With the national spotlight on Tampa, broadcasts showcased the city’s scenic waterfront, thriving downtown, and passionate sports community. The excitement extended far beyond Amalie Arena, with watch parties and fan events lighting up streets and gathering spaces across the area.
A massive thank you goes out to the NCAA, the Amalie Arena team, local law enforcement, city officials, and volunteers for making the weekend smooth, fun, and unforgettable. Their coordination and hospitality helped create an experience that players, coaches, and fans will remember for years.
While this Final Four is over, March Madness will return to Tampa in 2026, when Amalie Arena will host the first and second rounds of the NCAA Men’s Tournament.
From buzzer-beaters to block parties, Tampa once again proved it’s a championship city. And with such a successful showing, a fifth Women’s Final Four weekend here feels closer than ever.
