The Epicenter Of
College Basketball
The 2018 First Four® set a record attendance for both single game (12,732) and two-night totals (25,068)
NCAA Tournament games at UD Arena continue to see capacity crowds year after year.
Year after year, the NCAA First Four in Dayton draws record ratings and a viewership of millions
Visits from the United States President, British Prime Minister and Ohio Governor (2012)
Cancelled for 2020
Learn moreReady to shoot some hoops? Want to learn something new? Is tinkering, building and creating something awesome your thing? Then we’ve got just the event for you… Bring your family to participate in an exciting and FREE basketball and educational event for boys and girls, grades K-8 – Cancelled for 2020
Learn more“We’re obviously very disappointed that the NCAA First Four won’t be coming to Dayton in 2021, but, given the state of the pandemic and the need to protect the health of players, fans, event staff, and the entire community, we wholly understand and support the NCAA’s decision. The First Four is a terrific event, and we look forward to it returning to Dayton in 2022 and beyond,” said Slaybaugh. “It gives us a chance to put a spotlight on the Dayton region, our incredible military community, and the many businesses and organizations that come together year after year to make the basketball tournament and Big Hoopla events shine.” - Terry Slaybaugh, Volunteer Chair - The Big Hoopla
The University of Dayton Arena will host the NCAA Tournament First Four through at least 2026.
The Big Hoopla thanks all of our sponsors for their commitment and support. Bringing the #FirstFour to Dayton wouldn't be possible without you!
The Hoopla Ticket Program provides NCAA Tournament tickets, free-of-charge to military servicemen, military families and local students. The highly successful program donates thousands of tickets annually, over 40,000 tickets donated since 2012 and has garnered the financial support from multiple NBA players and top-tier national sponsors.