Visit Sacramento announced today that the NCAA has awarded Sacramento several prestigious collegiate championship sporting events, solidifying the region’s position as a premier sports destination.

These events include the return of popular NCAA competitions that have previously been held in Sacramento.

The full list of awarded events include:

  • 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country Regional
  • 2026 NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country Regional
  • 2027 Division I Men’s Basketball First and Second Rounds
  • 2027 Division II Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country Regional

Visit Sacramento recognizes the significant economic impact these events have on our region and pursues hosting sporting events like NCAA competitions in part for the boost they bring to the local economy.

“We are deeply honored that the NCAA continues to recognize Sacramento as an ideal host city for these important events,” said Visit Sacramento President & CEO Mike Testa. “Sporting events like these make a tremendous impact on our city as they are crucial drivers of tourism spending and economic growth. These competitions bring thousands of athletes, staff, families, and fans to Sacramento who stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and support our local businesses.”

Visit Sacramento once again partnered with Sacramento State as the host institution for each of its Division I bids, and with the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) for the Division II Cross Country Regionals.

For years, event organizers have continued to be impressed with Sacramento’s state-of-the-art facilities, enthusiastic crowds, and ability to deliver exceptional experiences for both athletes and fans alike.

“As Sacramento’s reputation continues to grow as a world-class destination for some of the biggest names and brands in the sports-events industry, we hold our longstanding partnership with the NCAA at the top of that list” said David Eadie, Visit Sacramento’s Chief Sports & Entertainment Officer. “We know the NCAA prioritizes the experience of its student-athletes when selecting host communities and we are excited to welcome them to Sacramento and play a part in creating that life-long memory.” 

Beyond the NCAA, Visit Sacramento continues to secure a diverse range of sports events which generate thousands of hotel rooms stays and millions of dollars in economic impact annually. Earlier this year, Visit Sacramento was recognized nationally as the Sports Tourism Organization of the Year by the Sports Events and Tourism Association (Sports ETA).