IHSA Boys State Basketball Tournament Returns to Champaign

16 teams to compete at State Farm Center March 12-14, drawing over 34,000 fans

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Illinois High School Association Boys State Basketball Tournament is returning to Champaign this week, with 16 teams competing across four classes at the State Farm Center from March 12-14. Organizers estimate over 34,000 fans will attend the three-day event, which is expected to generate more than $6 million in economic impact for the local community.

Why it matters

The IHSA boys basketball tournament is a highly anticipated annual event that showcases the top high school talent in Illinois. Hosting the tournament in Champaign provides a major boost to the local economy and allows the community to showcase its facilities and hospitality to thousands of visitors.

The details

The tournament will feature semifinal games on Thursday and Friday, followed by consolation games in the evenings and championship games on Saturday. In addition to the main tournament, the IHSA-Special Olympics Unified Basketball State Tournament and the IHSA Wheelchair Basketball State Championships will also take place at the University of Illinois facilities.

  • The tournament will be held March 12 through March 14.
  • Semifinal games will take place on Thursday and Friday, beginning at 10 a.m. each day.
  • Consolation games will be played Thursday evening for Classes 1A and 2A, and Friday evening for Classes 3A and 4A, starting at 7 p.m.
  • Championship games for all four classes will be played on Saturday starting at 10 a.m.
  • The Unified Basketball tournament will take place on Friday and Saturday, while the Wheelchair Basketball championships are scheduled for Saturday morning.

The players

Jayne DeLuce

President and CEO of Experience Champaign-Urbana.

Goreville

One of the 16 teams competing in the Class 1A tournament.

Marist

One of the 16 teams competing in the Class 4A tournament.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're excited to bring sixteen of the top teams in Illinois to compete for the title at the State Farm Center.”

— Jayne DeLuce, President and CEO of Experience Champaign-Urbana (chambanatoday.com)

What’s next

Tickets for the tournament are available for individual sessions or multi-day passes through the State Farm Center box office and website.

The takeaway

The return of the IHSA boys basketball tournament to Champaign showcases the city's ability to host major sporting events and provide an economic boost to the local community. The tournament's mix of high school athletics, special events, and fan activities promises an exciting weekend for players, families, and spectators alike.