March Madness descends upon Winona Lake
WINONA LAKE, Ind. – March Madness is fast approaching Kosciusko County. Grace College is set to host the 2018 NCCAA Div. I Men’s and Women’s Basketball National Championships this month.
The unique national event, held March 14-17 at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center, features 16 premier men’s and women’s college basketball teams in the nation. The MOCC will host 24 basketball games over four days, culminating with Championship Saturday to crown both a men’s and women’s national champion.
Wednesday and Thursday of the national tournament consists of eight games apiece, tipping off at 8:30 a.m. and running until after 10 p.m. Last year’s tournaments saw Colorado Christian take the men’s national title and Greenville (Ill.) win the women’s banner.
Tickets for the event are $30 for a four-day pass or $10 for a one-day pass. Children and students can purchase a discounted $5 one-day pass. Call (574) 372-5100 ext. 6266 for ticket or sponsor information. Visit the official tournament website at www.GCLancers.com/nccaa for more information.
On Tuesday, Grace will host the national tournament banquet for participating teams. The speaker this year is Indiana basketball legend Kent Benson, the 1976 NCAA champion from Indiana University and former No. 1 NBA draft pick. Banquet tickets to hear Benson speak are available by calling Grace’s athletic office.
This year’s tournaments are unique because the NCCAA is celebrating its 50th year in existence. Additionally, this marks Grace’s 10th straight year hosting a national basketball championship.
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