American Athletic Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships

The American Athletic Conference has announced that the 2026 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships will be held at Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama. This marks the first time the American championships will take place at this venue.

“We are thrilled to bring our basketball championships to Birmingham,” said American Athletic Conference Commissioner Tim Pernetti. “Our top priority when we began this bid process was to deliver the best possible experience for our student-athletes. The ability of Birmingham to accommodate both championships and the year-round support that we will receive from the local committee will help make these events an unforgettable experience for our players and fans.”

Legacy Arena at the BJCC hosts national and international touring concerts, productions, and sporting events each year. The arena underwent a $125 million modernization in 2021 and has hosted major basketball events, including the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Regionals and the 2025 SEC Women’s Gymnastics Championships. It previously hosted the 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball First and Second Rounds and is set to host that event again in 2028.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome the American Athletic Conference to Legacy Arena,” said Tad Snider, executive director & CEO of the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. “With the recent NCAA Women’s Regionals, the 2023 Men’s First and Second Rounds, and another set of Men’s Rounds scheduled for 2028, Birmingham has firmly established itself as a premier destination for championship basketball. We’re proud to showcase our vibrant city and world-class venue, and we look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience for student-athletes, fans, and the entire American Athletic Conference community.”
 

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