For the past 11 years the Queen City has hosted the CIAA tournament, and more people flock to the city every year for the week-long event. From exciting games, after-party scenes, and a nice boost in the economy, this tournament is something that basketball fans look forward to every year. If you happened to miss out on the 2016 CIAA tournament, we’ve got you covered:
And the Championship Title Goes To…
First things first, let’s talk about who took home the Championship Title. The winners of this year’s 2016 CIAA tournament were the Virginia State University men’s basketball team and the Virginia Union University women’s basketball team. The championship games were held at the Time Warner Arena in Charlotte on February 27. The VSU men took down Livingstone College 89-79, while the VUU women defeated Shaw University 70-66.
Special Highlights
There were many moments that had fans on the edges of their seats. If you didn’t catch the games, here is what you missed during the CIAA tournament:
Livingstone College vs. Johnson C. Smith University
The two-time CIAA Tournament Champion Livingstone College men’s basketball team snagged their spot in the semifinal by beating out Johnson C. Smith University in double overtime. The final score was 97-91.
Livingstone College vs. Winston-Salem State University
The Livingstone College women’s basketball team edged out Winston Salem State University with a 51-49 victory. The win allowed Livingstone to remain tied for second in the CIAA’s Southern Division, thanks to some pretty stellar defense by the Blue Bears.
Fayetteville State vs. Chowan University
Better late than never! During the second round of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association men’s tournament, Fayetteville State made a comeback against Chowan University after committing 10 turnovers in the first half and making only 9 out of 29 shots from the field. Luckily, Fayetteville’s fantastic defense allowed them to avoid falling too far behind and they were able to rally back in the second half to secure the win.
Celebrities in Charlotte
Every year, celebrities make their way into Charlotte to enjoy the CIAA tournament (and of course, the after-parties). Singer Lyfe Jennings performed at halftime, while R&B singer Anthony Hamilton sang the national anthem before the final game kicked off. Brittany Renner, 50 Cent, and Nas were just a few of the many celebrities who hosted events during the week. Floyd Mayweather and French Montana were also seen in the Queen City. We can’t forget about CIAA legends Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, Bobby Dandridge, and A.B. Whitfield either.
CIAA Hall of Fame Inductions
Speaking of CIAA legends, Earl “the Pearl” Monroe of Winston-Salem State was inducted into the CIAA Hall of Fame, as was Ronald “Flip” Murray of Shaw. And who could forget Abraham “Mr. CIAA” Mitchell of Suffolk, Virginia, whose flamboyant suits always entertain the crowd during the CIAA tournament?
Get Ready for Next Year’s CIAA Tournament!
Basketball fans are already booking hotels for the 2017 CIAA tournament and we recommend that you book yours now before it’s too late! Every year, basketball fans converge on the Queen City not only for basketball, but also to enjoy what this beautiful city has to offer. Charlotte is a great place to set up your business and YourOffice Ballantyne makes it easy with virtual offices and a wide selection of business meeting rooms. Contact us today and find out how you can get two month’s free rent and help you find the professional workspace that’s right for you!
