Duval Times

The Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) has announced that its men's and women's basketball tournaments will be held in Jacksonville, Florida. The decision marks a significant development for the ASUN and highlights Jacksonville's status as a key location for major sporting events.

Bacon commented on the move, stating, "The decision to move the tournaments to Jacksonville represents a significant milestone for the ASUN and underscores the city's growing reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events." He added that Jacksonville's enthusiasm for sports and excellent facilities would offer an exceptional experience for athletes and fans.

Scheduled for 2026, the championships will feature all 12 ASUN member institutions with 24 teams competing over seven days. This event is expected to bring more than $10 million annually to Jacksonville's economy. The City of Jacksonville and Visit Jacksonville are partners in organizing this event.

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan expressed pride in hosting the tournaments: "We look forward to welcoming the many student-athletes, families, coaches, and fans to our city." She acknowledged the economic benefits it would bring and thanked those who contributed to securing this opportunity.

Michael Corrigan of Visit Jacksonville shared his excitement: "For the second time in as many years, we’re ecstatic to be part of an announcement about the Atlantic Sun Conference moving something to Jacksonville."

The tournament rounds will start at campus sites before moving downtown to VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena from quarterfinals through finals. Mike Kenny from ASM Global stated, "We are honored to welcome the ASUN Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments," emphasizing their readiness to host such a prestigious event.

Further details about brackets, hotels, ticketing information, sponsorships, and partnerships will be released soon. Fans can stay updated via www.asunsports.org or @asunsports on social media.

Bacon extended gratitude towards various contributors including Joe Kaminski from ASUN Senior Associate Commissioner; Susan Donovan leading Council of Presidents; Nick Morrow heading Directors of Athletics; Michael Corrigan at Visit Jacksonville; Mike Kenny at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena; alongside other individuals involved locally.

He concluded by addressing student-athletes: “More than anything we want to provide you with an elite championship experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.”

Founded in 1978 as an NCAA Division I conference sponsoring 22 sports across southeastern U.S., current members include Austin Peay State University (Tenn.), Bellarmine University (Ky.), University Central Arkansas (Ark.), Eastern Kentucky University (Ky.), Florida Gulf Coast University (Fla.), among others spread throughout region.