RALEIGH, N.C. - For the second consecutive year the Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena (ESA) will be home to the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association's (CIAA) annual basketball tournament Feb. 25 Ð March 3. In its 56th year, the CIAA Men's and Women's Basketball Championships are not only an athletic event, but a cultural extravaganza considered the premiere African-American social event on the East Coast.
Established in 1912, the CIAA is the nation's oldest black athletic conference and the tournament is a week-long series of social and alumni functions featuring concerts, dances and other live performances. The 2000 tournament was a sell out and had a $8.3 million economic impact on the City of Raleigh.
"We are excited about being back in Raleigh and the Entertainment and Sports Arena," said CIAA Commissioner Leon Kerry. "Last year was more successful than we could have hoped and the hospitality of the City of Raleigh was refreshing and accommodating. We can only anticipate it being even better this year."
Again in 2001, the CIAA will host its explosive fashion show, a Greek step show, the Tom Joyner Morning Show and Coca-Cola Super Saturday. Super Saturday, which is free to the public at the ESA, is a family-oriented event for all ages which includes the ever-popular cheerleading exhibition, Battle of the Bands, the Mennen-Speedstick Ultimate Slam Dunk contest, the Irish Spring 3-Point contest and the 1-800-CALL-ATT 3-on-3 competition.
"The CIAA brings an element of excitement and expectancy with it every year," said Dave Heinl, president of the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau. "It is a unique event that Raleigh realizes it is fortunate to have. Last year was a success, but with a year under our belts, this year looks to be even more sensational."
The CIAA again anticipates coverage from national media outlets and the attendance of celebrities from the world of professional sports, music, television and film.
Visit www.ciaa2001.com for ticket information and up-to-the-minute tournament results as it unfolds. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the CIAA offices directly at 757-865-0071.