Topeka Scarecrows Host Historic Playoff Game

Playoff hockey returns to Topeka after 25-year drought, generating excitement and economic boost

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:50am

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes capturing the dynamic movement and energy of a hockey game, the players and puck dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of paint.The electric atmosphere of Topeka's long-awaited return to playoff hockey is captured in a burst of neon color and energy.Binghamton Today

Playoff hockey returned to Topeka, Kansas on April 15, 2026 as the hometown Topeka Scarecrows faced off against the Binghamton Black Bears. Despite a third-period rally, the Scarecrows lost the first game of the playoff series. The event marked a significant milestone for the city, with fans gathering hours before the game and creating a lively atmosphere inside the Stormont Vail Events Center.

Why it matters

The return of playoff hockey to Topeka has provided a notable boost to the local economy, with the team's owner estimating that it brings millions of dollars into the community. The event has also generated substantial excitement and community pride among local residents, demonstrating the strong demand for high-quality entertainment in the city.

The details

Fans began gathering at the Stormont Vail Events Center hours before the doors opened, with the line for entry extending around the corner of the venue. Attendees arrived with makeshift drums, signs, and face paint to support their respective teams, and some reported taking time off from work early to ensure they could secure a spot in line. The visiting Binghamton Black Bears fans also demonstrated their dedication, with one fan driving 19 hours through the night to attend the game.

  • Playoff hockey returned to Topeka on April 15, 2026.
  • The Topeka Scarecrows faced the Binghamton Black Bears in the first game of the playoff series.

The players

Topeka Scarecrows

The hometown hockey team that hosted the historic playoff game in Topeka.

Binghamton Black Bears

The visiting hockey team that faced off against the Topeka Scarecrows in the playoff game.

Matt Rockers

The interim general manager of the Stormont Vail Events Center, who noted the strong community support and demand for high-quality entertainment.

Don Lewis

The owner of the Topeka Scarecrows, who stated that the team brings millions of dollars into the local community.

Yvonne

A Binghamton Black Bears fan who drove 19 hours through the night to attend the playoff game.

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What they’re saying

“To see the support we've had this year- it just proves that the community really enjoys this and really want good entertainment and we're happy to be able to provide it for them.”

— Matt Rockers, Interim general manager of the Stormont Vail Events Center

“We wouldn't have it any other way. We drove through the night. It was 19 hours, and we're here.”

— Yvonne, Binghamton Black Bears fan

“You know, even after a tough loss or something, you see families coming together and having fun and giving high-fives after goals. That's the whole part we're here for.”

— Don Lewis, Topeka Scarecrows owner

What’s next

The Topeka Scarecrows and Binghamton Black Bears will face off in the second game of the playoff series on April 17, 2026.

The takeaway

The return of playoff hockey to Topeka has not only generated significant community excitement and pride, but also provided a notable economic boost to the local economy. The event has demonstrated the strong demand for high-quality entertainment in the city and the value that such events can bring to the community.