Dallas Lands HBCU Basketball Championship Through 2029

The annual tournament will showcase HBCU talent and drive significant economic growth in the city.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 11:39am

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The Dallas Sports Commission has secured a three-year bid to host the Hope Credit Union Basketball Championship, the culmination of the HBCUAC basketball season, from 2027 through 2029. The announcement came during a press conference at Paul Quinn College, with HBCUAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes highlighting Dallas' "outstanding commitment to celebrating HBCU excellence and providing a first-class experience." The tournament has shown remarkable growth, generating over $1 million in economic activity by 2025.

Why it matters

Hosting the HBCU basketball championship is a major coup for Dallas, as it will showcase the incredible talent and tradition of these student-athletes while also driving significant economic growth through increased tourism and spending. The event aligns with the city's efforts to support HBCU athletics and celebrate the unique culture and spirit of HBCUs.

The details

The Hope Credit Union Basketball Championship features all 15 HBCUAC member schools competing for the title. In just its second year, the tournament generated roughly $750,000 in economic activity in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and that figure had topped $1 million by 2025. Dallas Sports Commission Executive Director Monica Paul said the partnership reflects the city's commitment to supporting HBCU athletics and celebrating the talent and tradition of these student-athletes.

  • The Dallas Sports Commission secured a three-year bid to host the championship from 2027 through 2029.
  • The announcement was made during a press conference on February 20, 2026.

The players

Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes

HBCUAC Commissioner who highlighted Dallas' commitment to celebrating HBCU excellence and providing a first-class experience for student-athletes, coaches, and fans.

Monica Paul

Executive Director of the Dallas Sports Commission, who said the partnership reflects the city's commitment to supporting HBCU athletics and celebrating the talent and tradition of these student-athletes.

Hope Credit Union

The title sponsor of the HBCU basketball championship that will be hosted in Dallas from 2027 through 2029.

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What they’re saying

“Dallas demonstrated an outstanding commitment to celebrating HBCU excellence and providing a first-class experience for our student-athletes, coaches, and fans.”

— Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes, HBCUAC Commissioner (wfaa.com)

“This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting HBCU athletics and celebrating the incredible talent, tradition, and spirit these student-athletes bring to the court.”

— Monica Paul, Executive Director, Dallas Sports Commission (wfaa.com)

What’s next

The Hope Credit Union Basketball Championship will be held in Dallas from 2027 through 2029, showcasing the best HBCU basketball talent and driving significant economic growth in the city.

The takeaway

Dallas' successful bid to host the HBCU basketball championship underscores the city's commitment to supporting and celebrating HBCU athletics. The event will provide a national platform for HBCU student-athletes while also generating substantial economic benefits for the local community through increased tourism and spending.